tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35206132918220289432024-02-19T07:54:01.342-08:00Mazu AdventuresElainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.comBlogger85125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-30365602378872357172015-05-02T17:38:00.002-07:002015-07-21T11:15:34.839-07:00www.outbound46.com Mazu is on the move<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Mazu is on the move!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Mazu is on its way from Fiji to Hawaii. I was in Fiji to
meet the crew and prepare her for her voyage. Wow, did we ever find a great
crew in John, Roy, and Geoff (Bones). All great sailors, and they sure know their way around a boat! <o:p></o:p></div>
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I was able to take a final South Pacific cruise with her and
the crew from Denarau to Savu Savu. It was a beautiful 3 days with rainbows
following us. Once in Savu Savu we refueled, and prepared Mazu for her voyage. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The plan was the crew was to leave on Friday April 17 (yes a
Friday, we are not superstitious) but the weather was not cooperating, with
high winds, seas and raining buckets. Unfortunately
I had a flight out of Savu Savu to return home so, I said my goodbyes on
Saturday morning, Mazu left Fiji on Monday April 20th. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We receive regular reports from the guys and all is well.
After the initial high wind days out of Fiji, Mazu is sailing well to weather
in light air. The crew reports that they
have been able to sail far more than they thought they would, thanks to her
design and our new head sail, a light air drifter<o:p></o:p></div>
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With a short stop in Apia, Samoa for fuel she is currently
on her way to Christmas Island then on to Hawaii. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Stay tuned for further updates… <o:p></o:p></div>
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Also please visit our web site: <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://www.outbound46.com/">www.outbound46.com</a> <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meet the crew, Roy, Bones, John<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fiji Bitters for all at Cardo"s in Denarau</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Always end with a sunset </td></tr>
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<b>UPDATE: June</b><br />
<b>Mazu made it safe and sound to Hawaii. Here she will sit a Ko Olina marina awaiting the Pacific High to form. Our great crew will return to sail her on into Seattle Washington...</b><br />
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<b>UPDATE: July 12, 2015</b><br />
<b>Mazu is now on her way to Seattle! The crew says she is sailing "like a dream" You can follow her by going to Pacific Seafarer's net, and click on the YOTREPs link. Scroll down until you se Mazu, click on "track".</b><br />
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<b>Please go to our web site: www.outbound46.com </b><br />
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Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-79697134365717055942015-03-13T11:56:00.000-07:002015-03-13T12:13:16.820-07:00 Outbound 46 Mazu For Sale<br />
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Sadly we have made a very hard decision to sell our beloved Mazu. Mel's health will not allow us to continue this adventure.<br />
We have a very capable crew that will sail her from Fiji to Hawaii in April. Then in June or July she will be sailed to Seattle Washington.<br />
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We have a website dedicated to her sale: <a href="http://www.outbound46.com/">www.outbound46.com</a><br />
<b>Please click this link, the more folks visit the more it will help "push" it to the top of Googles search</b><br />
Thank you all for your support, and comments.<br />
Now on to our next AdventureElainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-61647976333518985632014-12-13T10:55:00.000-08:002014-12-14T09:16:02.658-08:00September 2014 Good-bye Fiji, for now <br />
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Wow … you just never know what will happen next. Here we
were in a Fijian paradise, getting ready to head to New Zealand to sit out the
cyclone season in the tropics after more Fijian cruising. Plans were in the
works to sail for 3-4 more weeks in the Yasawa island group in western Fiji,
our last cruise for the season. We planned
to return to Musket Cove and Lautoka for passage preparations and the checking
out procedures while waiting for a good weather window to sail South. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Then … due to some unforeseen health considerations with Mel,
we found ourselves back home in Oregon again for tests, doctor appointments
etc. Feeling a bit deflated, we had now missed our late season Fiji cruising. Luckily
the Oregon weather decided to cooperate for September and October with many sunny
warm days. Plus it had been several years since we had seen the beautiful Fall
colors, so all in all, not too bad. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Thus with a previously well tested “cyclone plan”
established, we decided to leave Mazu in Fiji for the cyclone season under the
watchful eye of a local very experienced captain and helpful cruising friends who
will take good care of her. I made a brief trip back to Fiji in November to
finish preparing Mazu for cyclone season. So the hatches are batten down and
Mazu awaits our return in the Spring. What cruising comes next will be
determined at that time.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In this post I have added some pictures of our time in Fiji,
in no particular order… enjoy. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-32838110311625982692014-12-04T11:46:00.001-08:002014-12-04T11:46:33.166-08:00Girls week in Fiji, August 21 - 29 2014<div class="MsoSubtitle">
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<span style="color: windowtext;"><b>Girls week in Fiji,</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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While Mel is back home to attend his 50<sup>th</sup> High
School Class Reunion (yes he is that old!) my girlfriend, Glenna has come to
stay with me. I miss my friends and family so much while we are out sailing so
I am thrilled that she is here. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This is Glenna’s first time in the South Pacific so I want
her to experience it all! We have lots to do and so little time. Here are some
highlights:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Snorkel trip to South Seas Island:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Up bright and early for our cruise out to the nearby South Seas Island. This small island is run by the tour company of the same name.
Here you get to relax on the beach (free beer and soft drinks yea!) Snorkel on
the fabulous reef, kayak, and beach comb. It is picture perfect. Lunch is also
provided and it was yummy. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This was the first time that Glenna snorkeled, and I have to
say it was a very nice reef with lots of fish to see. While you can snorkel
right off the beach the guides will also take you out on a boat to snorkel some
very nice coral “pillars” in deeper water. The water was very clear and we saw
lots of fish. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Too soon it is time to go. While we were having so much fun
the wind and waves had built up to getting back onto our “Mother Ship” to take
us back to Denarau was exciting. But soon we were all on and heading back.<br />
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<br />
Back on Mazu, we have invited new friends we met on the island for drinks. She is from New Zealand and he is Fijian, a student at the University in Suva. We
enjoyed the warm evening with our new friends with drinks, snacks watching all
the activity in the harbor, a perfect ending to a great day.<br />
<o:p></o:p><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvR48PrcmI3stnNFHP22USQn_eFjvK1RNp6ejyfOX57QJwIKSwa49ERIHrrqFj_992oNHSfucWmQqdj8ZW1lvkWtyZApLKceh-dnUyMuX4TxKIrTgdzC7IJI4AaBPVQ0iUIY0jVc5Mxvam/s1600/P1010359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvR48PrcmI3stnNFHP22USQn_eFjvK1RNp6ejyfOX57QJwIKSwa49ERIHrrqFj_992oNHSfucWmQqdj8ZW1lvkWtyZApLKceh-dnUyMuX4TxKIrTgdzC7IJI4AaBPVQ0iUIY0jVc5Mxvam/s1600/P1010359.JPG" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>A warm welcome to South Seas Island</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>Market trip to Nadi
and Lautoka:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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I have always found that one of the best ways to immerse
yourself into a culture is to go to the market. Now I don’t mean the grocery
store. Most markets are open markets selling fruits, veggies, fish and
handicrafts. The best day is usually Saturday so that’s when we go.<o:p></o:p></div>
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We hop on the bus bright and early. Our first stop will be
Nadi. On the bus we meet a man who wants to show us a Fijian craft store run by “real” Fijians, (this seemed to be an important distinction by the man). I quickly figure out that they ride the bus to meet tourists
and bring them to the store, but he is very nice and the store is Fijian run.
Here we are invited to book an inland trip to the small village of Bukuya. As we had this on our list of things to do we agree to
their tour and sign up for Monday. After a quick stroll through the Nadi market
we board a bus to the much larger Latoka market to do our shopping. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Glenna and I have decided to prepare a Fijian meal so we are
looking for unusual fruits and veggies to prepare. We really enjoy the fresh
fish market and the spice vendors. We end up purchasing clams, some sort of
greens that look like large fern fiddles, roasted corn on the cob, bananas. <o:p></o:p><br />
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We are very tired from the day of shopping so we head back
to the bus terminal and board a bus to take us back to Nadi. And there we wait,
we wait and wait some more. After about a half hour the bus finally leaves. It
appears we are on the milk-run as this bus seems to be going everywhere but
Nadi. We go on gravel roads into the cane fields, and around Vuda Point and
then the driver stops, down this gravel road by a small shop and gets out. Must
be union break time. By now we have been
on this scenic tour for almost an hour. When our driver returns I ask if we are
now going to Nadi. No he grumbles, this is the Vuda Point bus. You must get off
at the main road and wait for another bus. Now I am positive that when we got
on our bus in Lautoka it said Nadi on it. We think that while we were waiting
they changed the sign on the front of the bus… <o:p></o:p></div>
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So here we wait on the main road with our iced down clams,
and all our other purchases from the day. We are unsure when the next bus will
arrive, and really we are in the middle of nowhere. Soon a nice young man comes
to the bus stop. He waves down a taxi and tells us we should go with him in the
taxi to the airport to catch the bus to Nadi as it could be a long wait here.
The driver will only charge us a dollar each to the airport, we take him up on the
offer, after all, it’s all part of the adventure… and soon we are at the airport and on a
bus to Nadi, then another bus to the marina. We are home by dark but man are we
tired. No cooking tonight. We decide to
just eat our corn and have a beer. Fijian corn is awful! Not the sweet corn we would eat on a lovely summer day, It is feed corn, that we would grow to feed stock, not humans. So it is cheese and crackers for dinner. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>We make our Fiji feast the next day yum, yum</b></td></tr>
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<b>Inland Trip: Bukuya village<o:p></o:p></b><br />
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We are excited to go to our trip to village. We are picked up by George and his
wife Noti (sounds like naughty) who are from this village. This village is just starting
on this endeavor of bringing in small groups of tourists to experience true
Fijian village life. And we are excited to be one of the first groups. <o:p></o:p></div>
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It take about 2 hours on a hilly gravel road to get to this
village. As you see from the pictures it is a very neat and pretty village and you can tell that the Chief and
families that live here take pride in their village. While poor it is neat and
clean. <o:p></o:p></div>
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When we arrive we are greeted by excited children who run
along the road, excited to see phalanges visiting their village. We are greeted
by more of George’s relatives with pretty lei’s. We are brought to Georges home
and greeted by a welcome song and a kava ceremony. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Let me explain a little about Kava in Fijian culture. It is
VERY important. When you visit a village you by custom bring Kava to present to
the Chief. You are them welcomed into the village (more on that later). Kava is
the social drink in the villages. Both men and women will drink Kava but I
notice it is more men than women. In
Fiji, the Kava only produces a mellow feeling,
it is not that strong. Oh, and let’s say it is an acquired taste, I think
it tastes a bit like dirty dish-water.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So Glenna and I are here being treated like favored guests,
greeted with song, and Kava. We hang out with the guys for a while doing this
while the women and other male relatives are out preparing our food, (later
Glenna and thought we would have liked to have been out with them for a while
as we love to see how people prepare and cook food). <o:p></o:p></div>
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Soon we are served a very nice lunch. Fijian eat on mats on
the floor with no utensils. Also the family shares all food. We eat with the “older
women” and the men continue to play music and drink Kava. They will eat later I
guess. <o:p></o:p><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">
We are then taken by one of George’s s to tour the village
and meet the Chief for a “formal” Kava presentation. There is a small elementary/middle school. Students
board in Nadi for High School. Along the way we make friends with the children
and give out pens and pencils. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Soon we are at the Chiefs home. They are waiting for us,
already drinking Kava. The cousin is our spokesperson and will introduce us to the
Chief and present our Kava. We are wearing sarongs and must remove our shoes
and sit. The Chief is sitting by himself across the room and is….. playing solitaire!
There is about 10 family members there. Our Kava is presented along the
customary speech. It is accepted and now we are part of the village, really, we
are welcome anytime if we want to stay, someone will put us up they will
protect us and provide for us… not bad for a bundle of Kava…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cousin Manny takes over the tour. He is a Third Sex Fijian,
been raised as a girl, as we have seen in all the cultures in the South Pacific,
too hard to explain here… google it.. He shows us the Chiefs new ceremonial thatched
house (hey, why didn't do the Kava ceremony there, guess we could not interrupt
the solitaire game). Then we are invited into another home for, guess what? More
Kava! This family was so much fun, a relaxed group, take a look at the pictures. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Too soon it is time to head back to Denarau. It is a long
ride back. We stop for pictures at Navala Village, a traditional
thatched hut village. Before long we are back on Mazu exhausted. But what a
day! We really got a taste of Fijian life. They are such a friendly, generous
people, living a simple life and not needing anything else, just keep the Kava
coming!<o:p></o:p><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXEEit7Gi5LroiPaymbww0_sPV3Vp5U9iCQMOyz2OgTZh1SwMI0g0K0Wj0vUD0otpI8t2cS04HZv8rkD_SrhfoeUGY-7LJy7ofV4F_ygZWxtWCsyPE0npUg4-ceA19MVRR-pCp1JlCKqUJ/s1600/DSC_0282-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXEEit7Gi5LroiPaymbww0_sPV3Vp5U9iCQMOyz2OgTZh1SwMI0g0K0Wj0vUD0otpI8t2cS04HZv8rkD_SrhfoeUGY-7LJy7ofV4F_ygZWxtWCsyPE0npUg4-ceA19MVRR-pCp1JlCKqUJ/s1600/DSC_0282-001.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Thatched home in Navala</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5oh3JEwpIIW0dh9_KOTXLX47fjVcW_Q3TesgB4cCvrmBtS3K882IUDbqlhLmFQBOsgN1gDoNtS0fEg9FRuswqaL8A-k2Iy4qPYLSrFJol0paMu-JNQY25SzU9N4pggWyLc_RWlS5YAeJY/s1600/DSC_0299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5oh3JEwpIIW0dh9_KOTXLX47fjVcW_Q3TesgB4cCvrmBtS3K882IUDbqlhLmFQBOsgN1gDoNtS0fEg9FRuswqaL8A-k2Iy4qPYLSrFJol0paMu-JNQY25SzU9N4pggWyLc_RWlS5YAeJY/s1600/DSC_0299.JPG" height="130" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Navala Village</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Navala Village</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
The next few days with Glenna are a blur, we go on a dinghy
ride where Glenna catches a Barracuda (catch and release), a great seafood
dinner and Meke (Fijian dance) show, I get sick and we need to visit an
Indo-Fijian Doctor ($40.00 for an office visit and an injection of
antibiotics), and gift shopping, say hello again to Mel as he returns, and then I have
to say good-bye to Glenna. <o:p></o:p><br />
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Glenna, I hope you had as much fun as I did. <o:p></o:p><br />
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Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-50529691884126184922014-10-17T17:23:00.000-07:002014-10-28T15:00:50.361-07:00Fiji July - August 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We leave Niuatoputapu with a light breeze. Weather
predictions are for little wind so we are expecting a motor-sail to Fiji. As we
leave we see whales, just as was the case in our last departure of Niuatoputapu,
I take as a good sign. We set out our
light air sail and we move along nicely, but soon the wind dies and we are
motor sailing again. Tyler and I have set out our fishing lines and we soon have
a strike, another nice Barracuda.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With the light wind and calm seas we fall into a nice easy passage
routine. As the seas are very calm Tyler is not getting seasick and is able to
enjoy his time in the open sea. I do admit it is kind of boring for a 14 year
old.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The next day is just like the yesterday as far as wind a sea
conditions go. We are lucky again and catch our biggest fish yet, a 5ft Wahoo.
This is the first Wahoo caught on Mazu and wow are they a tasty fish. All in
all we catch four fish on the passage, 2 Barracuda, 1 Wahoo, and one Mahi Mahi.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After 3 days we arrive at Savusavu on the north island Vanua
Levu Fiji. As we arrive at night we drift in the large bay outside of harbor
and wait for first light to enter. We
get our first taste of the Fijians “Bula” spirit with the officials who check us
in. They could not have been nicer, more efficient and helpful; one official
even asked Tyler to his house as he has a son is age that he would love for him
to meet as he has never met an American before. Soon we are soon checked in and
secured in a slip at Copra Shed Marina. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Let me explain a little about what I mean “checked in”. We
are arriving into the country as a foreign vessel and foreign visitors. So we
are met on the boat by officials from, Immigration, Customs, Health and
sometimes Bio security. In Fiji it was all of above. Also prior to your arrival
many countries ask for a 48 hour advance notice of arrival. Now you ask, how you
can do that you are sailing in the open ocean, how will you know when you
arrive. Luckily they just want the notice “at least” 48 hours upon arrival. So
prior to leaving Tonga I had the necessary documents scanned and emailed to the
Fiji government. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When we arrived in Fiji they already had most of our
information. So what the officials do is check your boat for contraband,
(sometimes usually you just fill out a form with your estimated amount of
alcohol and cigarettes on board). Then you have a form asking is anyone sick?
No. How long are you staying? About 4 months, (your boat can stay 18 months;
you on the other hand can stay 4). Do you have any meat on board? Yes. Where is
it from? All beef and chicken are from New Zealand, and we have fresh caught
fish in the freezer, would you like some? Why yes, thank you. Do you have any garbage? Yes. There is a
small fee for bringing in garbage (this is the Bio Security official), make
sure you only dump it at the Copra Shed marina ok? Yes I will. While the process
is a little nerve racking it is usually fun, and can be an indication of the
personality of the people in your new country. Here in Fiji they have set the
tone and soon we find that like the officials the Fijians are a very welcoming,
friendly people. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We are all anxious to get off the boat and explore our new “home”. Savusavu is the largest town on Vanua Levu. We soon discover how cheap things are here in Fiji as compared to Tonga and New Zealand, helped by the favorable exchange rate. It is cheaper to eat out than cook on the boat, hey I am not arguing about that!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Unfortunately our time in Savusavu is short as we need to be at Musket Cove off the main island of Viti Levu to meet Matt, Sherry and the rest of the Grandson’s. While I know Tyler has enjoyed his adventure he is missing his family and can’t wait to see them.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In preparation to our cruising in Fiji we attend a “cruisers” seminar put on by Curly. Curly is an ex-cruiser who now resides in Fiji. He runs the morning radio net and is the unofficial mayor or Savusavu. Weekly he puts on a seminar and sells chartlets with way points to avoid the many uncharted reefs in Fiji. This is very valuable information as we have read and heard that cruising in Fiji can be challenging and best done in good sunlight to spot the many reefs. As part of his fee he will also help with route planning throughout your time in Fiji, very helpful.<o:p></o:p></div>
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As we are preparing to leave we receive a visitor. It is the custom official who wanted to have Tyler to his home. He invites Tyler to lunch at his home. So while Tyler goes to his house for lunch we finish the preparations to leave. When they return we get to meet his son as they visit and tour our boat. Too soon it is time to head out. </div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
With our route planned we check out of Savusavu for our trip
to Musket Cove. It will take about 3-4 days to get there as we will only be
traveling during daylight hours. Our first milestone is to cross the Koro sea notorious for high winds and choppy seas. It will take most of the day to
cross. Our plan then is to tuck into the reef protection of Viti Levu island
and hop-scotch our way over the top of the island to our destination on the
west side. We figure our best bet is to start the crossing early so we can be
as far across as possible before the winds and seas kick up. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Koro Sea lives up to its reputation and in the late
afternoon the wind and seas pick up, luckily we were nearly across so we were
fine, and soon we are anchored off a very pretty island. It takes us three more
days to travel through the reef channels, good thing we had those waypoints as
the weather proves to be raining most of the time, not good visibility for reef spotting. The way points
are right on and soon we are around the top of and on a mooring ball at Port
Denarau. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Port Denarau is just a few miles from Nadi, the second
largest town on Viti Levu. Denarau is also where many resorts are located and
is the jumping off spot for many tourists to the outer island resorts. There is
a marina, shops, and restaurants located here. It is here that we are reunited
with our friends, Doug and Carla from Moondance. We left them in Samoa last
season. They were heading here to Fiji, we were heading to Tonga and New
Zealand. I was fun to catch up with them and get the local “scoop”. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Musket Cove <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Musket Cove,
a marina and resort located on Malolo Lailai Island a short sail from Port
Denarau. We arrive the day before our Son Matt and his family are due to
arrive. Musket Cove Marina is home to the cruiser friendly Musket Cove Yacht
Club, where for a small 10 dollar fee you become a card carrying member. There
is a lovely thatched roof bar overlooking the bay and anchorage. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We are soon
welcoming Matt, Sherry, Matt Jr. Joshua and Benjamin to Fiji. Our first night
finds us celebrating Tyler’s 14<sup>th</sup> birthday with a BBQ at the Yacht Club
and cake on the boat. Our family will spend 10 days in Fiji with us and boy we
jam-pack a lot into the trip. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As you see from
the pictures we enjoy, SUP, Fishing trips, snorkeling, fire-dance performance, swimming,
and a relaxing afternoon at the Cloud 9 floating restaurant. Too soon we are
all on Mazu and sailing back to Denarau to say goodbye. Here we will part ways
as the family will enjoy a few days in a resort here and we will provision and
head up to explore the Mamanuca group of islands before we return again to
Musket Cove for the famous annual Musket Cove Regatta. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Navandra: <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Sailing in
Fiji can be tricky best done in daylight hours with the sun shining. There are many
uncharted reefs and unmarked channels, and few cruising guides to help you. We
plan our route to Navandra and I keep a close look-out for much of the 4 hour
trip. Soon we are anchored in one of the prettiest anchorages we have been in. The anchorage is between two uninhabited
islands. The white sandy beach is beautiful and the snorkeling through the reef
between the two islands is spectacular, with lots of colorful coral. We are so impressed with the beauty that we
spend several nights here until it is time to return to Musket Cove. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Musket Cove
Regatta</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We are
excited to return to Musket Cove for the annual Regatta, we know we will catch
up with many or our cruising friends here. They expect at least 50 boats to
participate in the races and fun shore activities. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The first
night we are not disappointed, with an opening party and BBQ. But first there
is the tradition of the “singing of the national anthems”. All countries
represented are encouraged to participate. The Regatta committee finds the
background music and the representing cruisers take to the stage to sing. We
had representatives from, New Zealand, Australia, Norway, Ireland, Sweden, and
England. The USA was one of the largest and I have to say we did a great job. It
was a fun night of drinks, music and dancing with new and old friends. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The rest of
the week whirls by. There are sailboat races, dingy parades, a costume party,
beach games, and the anticipated Hobie Cat races. This takes place in the shallow
bay in front of the resorts. Over two days teams of 2 race each other (two
boats on the course at a time). I am asked to team with our friend, Doug on
Moondance. We have a great run but do not win our heat. The last night there is
a banquet and awards, and door prizes. I even win a fuel voucher! Too soon the
fun and games are over and people start to go their separate ways. It is time
for many of us to think of making plans for cyclone season. Many boats are continuing
to travel west to Vanuatu, New Caledonia, and Australia. Many boats will go
south to New Zealand as is our plan. But there is still over a month to explore
more of Fiji. Our next stop is back to Pt. Denarau. Mel is returning to Oregon
for his 50<sup>th</sup> High School class reunion. I will stay on Mazu in the
marina. My girlfriend, Glenna will join me here. I am looking forward to having
some girl time, and to share Fiji with her, I have a full week planned for us. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-36653489071353426092014-09-05T22:26:00.000-07:002014-09-05T22:26:14.091-07:00Niuatoputapu July 9th through July 18th<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Niafu to Niuatoputapu
Passage<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is about a 30 hour passage from Niafu in the Vava’u group
up to Niuatoputapu in the northern group of Tonga. This will be Mazu’s second
time here (my third thanks to my voyage with Mahina Tireri III in 2009), and we
cannot wait to return. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We raise anchor at 3 a.m. on Thursday July 9<sup>th</sup>.
We will buddy boat with Bill from Pacific Cool. We are expecting light winds
for at least the first half of the voyage. At about mid-day we are able to put
up or light air drifter and we sail along and a comfortable 5-6 knots. I set out our fishing lines. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As this is Tylers first open ocean passage I let him sleep
until early afternoon when I get him up to eat. He is a little seasick but does
not complain. As we are making a sail adjustment I look back and notice that
one of my fishing lines is crossed under the other, I must have a fish on. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yep! we have one. Tyler is very excited as we bring in a big
beautiful Mahi Mahi, at 40” long he is the largest fish we have caught to date.
The sea state is calm enough that I have no trouble getting him killed and
fillet. Fish for dinner tonight!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Friday July 10<sup>th</sup>: an uneventful night last night,
just how we like it. Our new light air drifter is a dream, moving us along at a
constant 5-6 knots in just 10 knots of wind. Sunrise is picture perfect and I
can see Niuatoputapu’s majestic cone shape, sister island Tafahi on the
horizon. I set out the fishing lines in hopes of another Mahi Mahi. We again let Tyler sleep in, but shortly
after my watch is over and I am just about to go down for a bit of sleep it is
Fish On! No trouble getting Tyler up and again we have no trouble bringing in a
nice size Barracuda, our first Barracuda ever.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Soon we are once again entering the passage and find ourselves
the only boat in this beautiful lagoon.
As we are getting ourselves settled a truck pulls up to the wharf and
toots its horn, it is Sia. We drop the dinghy and head into shore. <o:p></o:p><br />
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<b>Niuatoputapu </b>(Neeo-toe-phoo-tah-phoo) is a small island with
about 3 villages and about 600 inhabitants. It was devastated in a tsunami in
2009, just two days after I had left. When we were there last September the
villages had been rebuilt. Some of the villages had been relocated to higher
ground but many families decided to rebuild close to the shore where they had
been before. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When we were there before we had befriended Sia and her
family. Sia works for the Ministry of Commerce and Tourism (I guess even the
smallest islands have one) and is the greeter and friend to all the “yachties”.
I had called her from Niafu to let her know we are heading her way.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is a warm reunion it is so nice to see Sia again. Little
Sia is there too and she is as cute as ever. Sia drives us in to let us check
in. We make plans for the next day to tour the island and have lunch at the
beach. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
Later in the day we return to shore as we also want to see
our friend Ikoke and his sister Siona whom we had befriended last September. We
have some gifts for them and their family. I especially want Tyler to meet them
and the other very friendly children here. I have come prepared with my bag of
“lollies” and pencils. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It does not take long to find Ikoke as he and a group of
kids are playing near the wharf and as soon as they see us they all come running
to great us. Ikoke remembers his time with us. I have Tyler give him the soccer
ball we have brought for him. We then decide to take a walk around the village.
We are accompanied by this group of children and soon we collect more, each one
gets a candy and a pencil. We have a great time. Tyler joins in their games and
even teaches them a dance. The kids are kind and caring especially of the
younger ones. They are quick to laughter, like to tease and can be silly as can
be. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Island Tour and
Coconut Rugby<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sia has offered to take us on an island tour. We are joined
by Bill from Pacific Cool. We pile into Sia’s flatbed truck little Sia in the
front with Mel. She drives us all around this neat and very tidy island. Inland
we can see the new villages built in land to relocate people from the low lands
near the beaches and reef. We also take a trip out to the “airport”. Sia tells
us that they are lucky as a plane is now scheduled for every other Wednesday.
When we were here last September it seems the plane only came when the King was
to visit. So good news, a plane along with the once a month (mostly) supply
ship, bad news, the internet (if you could call it that, email sent and
received if you were lucky) has been down since last September. The only
communication now is through cell phones, and that is expensive. The best part of the visit to the airport is
the fantastic view of the surf crashing onto the coral. We even see a whale
spout.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We continue on to the High School (both an elementary and
high school share the same campus) where we speak with the deputy principal. We
ask if we may come visit the school as we have some supplies that we would like
to donate. She invites us to attend on Monday and advises that we come at 8:45
for the morning assembly. Here we also pick up Sia’s son Toa and two of his
friends, Moses and ????? and head to the beach for lunch.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sia takes us to a beautiful lagoon with a white sandy beach
and shallow water safe for little Sia. We have a nice lunch and I take little
Sia out for a swim, she loves the water. At first Tyler and the boys are a bit
shy of each other but Bill gets them started with a game of Rugby (Bill played
Rugby in college), as there is no ball to be had a coconut is procured for the
game, hence the name, Coconut Rugby. Boys will be boys everywhere and soon they
are like old friends. The game goes on and on, even into the water, where I
guess we can call it coconut rugby/water polo as there is a lot of dunking
going on. Soon it is time to go. Sia takes us to the fresh water spring nearby
to wash off the salt water then back to Sia’s home. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sia has asked Mel and Bill if they could look at her
generator, as it is not working (by the way, Sia’s husband, Nico is away
working is Australia). After some diagnosis, a trip to Bills boat for tools it
is determined that there is no oil in it and that there is a safety shut down.
With oil topped off it is working like a champ.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Our next day here is Sunday; we decide to go to the Wesleyan
Church. We had attended here last September and we want to show Tyler this
important part of Tongan culture. The congregation is small but their voices
are powerful and soon the entire church is filled with the strong and beautiful
voices of the Tongan singing. We see many of the children from our walk-about
yesterday and we see Moses. It turns out his Father is the Minister. As the
entire service is in Tongan we have no clue what he is saying but he is very
enthusiastic!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We have invited Sia and her family out for Sunday dinner at
1:00. I have baked much of the fish we caught along the way here along with the
sweet potatoes given to me by Sia, fruit salad and banana bread, quite the
feast. She has brought me a lovely woven matt, the kind a child would wear,
with shell decorations. I have prepared some gifts for her, clothes I bought at
home, a solar light, tarps, batteries etc. We also promise to visit her son Moto
(we share the same birthday and celebrated together last September) in Suva,
Fiji, where he is attending University. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Tyler goes to School</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sia meets us at the dock to take us to the school. She has
brought a school uniform for Tyler to wear, including the woven matt trimmed in
the school color of burgundy. I am
amazed at how well it fits. We arrive in time for the morning assembly. We are
introduced to the Principal and given chairs in the auditorium. The students
sit on the floor. The morning begins with song and prayer, Tonga is a very religious
country. The Principal then gives the morning announcements. The morning
assembly to our surprise is all done in English, although I noticed the
Principal would repeat an especially important reminder in Tongan (i.e. school
fees due). We are then introduced and asked to bring our gift up front. I give
it to Tyler to present (see the great picture). Then students recite a final
pray (our safety is included in their prayer), then they are sent off to class.
The Principal come to us and asks if Tyler would like to stay. We are surprised
that he says yes. So he is whisked away and we are left to wander about. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As we wait for lunch break we find ourselves in the middle
of the elementary recess. The kids all want to say hello and want their
pictures taken and shown. I pull our my ipad to show them pictures of Oregon
and our home and some of the dance videos from Samoa, soon I have a crowed all
trying to see. They are fascinated by the pictures and love the Samoan
dancing. Tyler had decided to stay for
the whole day and in addition asks if he can stay overnight at Sia’s wow. Oh and by the way can I come back to school
tomorrow? He does. <br />
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<o:p></o:p> </div>
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<b></b><br />
<b></b><br />
<b>July 15, Toa’s
Birthday<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We are having a potluck at Sia’s for Toa’s birthday. Along
with us and Bill another boat has arrive, The Italian’s (forgot their names and
the name of the boat) we will have Sia’s in-laws and who knows who else. I
bring chicken, fish and bake a cake. The Italians brought pasta, it was yummy.
It was all yummy. Bill brought Toa a spear gun and boy was he happy. Tyler is
asked to spend the night again, and he does. <br />
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<b>Leaving Niuatoputapu<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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It is time to move on. We are planning to leave here on
Saturday the 19<sup>th</sup> for our passage to Fiji. Matt, Sherry and the rest
of the grandsons will meet us there on August 3<sup>rd</sup>. It is a three day
passage to Savu Savu which is on the North island of Vanua Levu but we are
meeting them at Musket Cove which is off the west coast of the Southern island of
Viti Levu, so it is time to get the boat and us ready. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Before we leave we have Toa over for dinner and a movie, a
final goodbye for the new friends. Also, we have to check out of the country and say
our good byes to Sia. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The weather continues to look good for a Saturday
departure. Sia picks us up Friday
afternoon. To take us to the Official Office (use this term in loosest form
possible) so we can check out. Then we say a sad farewell. We promise to stay
in touch and we will try to send supplies from New Zealand via other cruisers
next year, and yes we promise again to see Motu in Suva. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We raise anchor early Saturday (July 19) morning, it is calm
and beautiful in the lagoon. It is so sad to think that this is most likely the
last time I will set eyes on this special place. I will never forget the people
here, and how hard they work and how happy they seem. I won’t forget the simple
life here, no real worries, plenty of food to eat, work to be done, family and
friends. I also will not forget how beautiful it is here, how peaceful. A part
of my heart will always be here, and I know that I will always have friends
here. I hope Tyler never forgets this place, I know I won’t. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Good bye…<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coconut Rugby</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-54080177910570090262014-07-07T18:57:00.001-07:002014-07-25T21:41:15.578-07:00Vava'u Tonga, June 19 - July 8, 2014<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our return trip from Oregon to Vava’u was long…. but soon we
are in the tropics again. We have brought our 13 (almost 14) year old grandson
back with us. He will crew with us while we cruise Tonga and then on to Fiji.
Mazu looks great upon our return, thanks Larry and Sheri for watching over her.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We are moored by the Ark Gallery in a nice little bay by
Tapana Island, known as anchorage number 11, and we are happy to be here to
settle back into the cruising life. The big news in Vava’u is “The King is
coming!”. There is a weeklong Kingdom wide Wesleyan Church conference and the
King and his family will attend. He will also stay for his Birthday Celebration
which is held on July 4<sup>th</sup>. The whole are is buzzing with activity.
We catch a taxi into town to witness the Kings arrival. All the school children
in school uniforms lined the street to greet the motorcade. I got a picture on
him in his car… look close it is the King. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We take off from Tapana Island as we want to show Tyler the
great snorkeling and small Tongan villages on some of the nearby islands. Our
first stop is Kapa Island. There are several small villages on Kapa Island, one
of the larger islands in the Vava’u group. It is here last year where we met a
nice boy named William who insisted that we visit his school. I hope to meet up
with him again as I have printed a picture that I took of him and his teacher.
We dingy to shore and see a few men on the wharf so we ask if it is ok to walk
through the village. But as we walk we are not greeted by the usual groups of
children the place looks deserted. A man walks by so I show him the pictures I
have and ask if the school is open. He tells us that everyone is in Neiafu for
the conference, and he is right, the whole village is gone. When we return to
the wharf there is a boat there loading up pigs, wood, a stove, and benches, I
guess going to the conference. We have learned that to feed the attendees, each
village takes a turn in hosting a “table” for a given meal during the
conference. This must be Kapa Island turn. (More on this later). I am sorry
that I missed seeing William, and for Tyler to visit a Tongan school. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Banyan Tree Family<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our next stop is Vaka’eitu, anchorage number 16, the Banyan
Tree Family island. Last year we visited here and were so surprised to find a
family living under this large Banyan tree. David and Hinka were so nice and
friendly and we cannot wait to see them again. I have brought things from New
Zealand and home with them in mind. We soon see them in a boat arrive in the
bay on a boat; they have come to invite the boats anchored here to a Tongan
feast they are holding the next day (a fund raiser for the small school on
near-by Lape island). I give Hinka some pictures I took last year of her and
two of their children. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We arrive for the feast along with 4 other boats the food is
very good. Tyler eats a lot of everything, so much for my worry of him not
eating Tongan food. We have a very pleasant visit with David and his family and
the other cruisers there. Later that evening we return so I can give them the
items we have for them. I want to thank them for letting us anchor in “their”
bay and for welcoming all the cruisers. One of the items I give them is a LUCI
solar light, Hinka loves this as now she can weave at night. They reciprocate
by giving us some very pretty Tongan handi-crafts including her hand-made woven
bookmarks. Before we leave David invites us to the closing feast of the
conference in Neiafu, as it is their island along with Lape islands turn to
host. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The next day finds us back at Kapa Island. We anchor close
to the reef we found last year that was good for snorkeling. We want to give
Tyler some more experience before we head to Swallows cave tomorrow. It is a
bright sunny day perfect for a snorkel. The reef is pretty good, some live
corral and lots of pretty fish. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Swallows Cave<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We visited Swallows Cave (actually missed named as the birds
who reside here were found to be swifts but the name stuck) last year and were
awed by the rock formations, the reefs and gin-clear water. There is a smaller
second cave which we found to be just as nice. The shelf has lots of colorful
corral and lots of tropical fish to view before the dramatic drop to deep blue
water. Unfortunately, have gone a little early to get the full effect of the
afternoon sun inside the cave but still, it is lovely. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>The Kings Birthday
Celebration<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
June 30<sup>th</sup>. We are back on a mooring in front of
Aquarium Café in Neiafu. This week will be the end of the church conference
(today) and various going ons for the Kings Birthday celebration. Ty and I are
going to attend the final feast of the church conference tonight at 10pm. The
King is the head of the Wesleyan Church and is here for the conference and then
will stay for his Birthday celebration, a first for Vava’u and the town is all
decked out. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We arrive early for the feast, and see all the tables are
set up. The conference is still going; we can hear the speeches and prayers
over the several loud speakers that are set up around the church grounds and
the High School yard where the food is served. We walk around looking for David
and Hinka and asking where the Lape Island table is but we cannot find it. As
we are waiting outside the gate two very nice Tongan women offer to help us.
One is a local woman and she knows who David is, she cannot find him but they
insist that we sit with them. You choose a table and sit.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Let me explain how our table is set. Each table is about
twenty feet long and it is layered with food. Every five feet is a roasted pig.
Every two feet is a basket full of cookies, chips, candy and fruit. It is
wrapped in cellophane with a stick in the center, taped to the stick like a
flag is a 10 pa’anga bill. We sit for a
little while as a speech and a prayer is spoken, then the hosts passes us
plates and forks, and they move down the table, pulling out the little flags of
money from each basket and place it before us, a gift for us. They then
encourage us to eat. In front of me is so much food I do not know where to
start, I eat ham, port, taro, bread fruit, sweet potato, cake, we all eat our
fill but we do not even make a dent. Our ladies insist that our hosts keep the
money and with some laughter and mock refusals they accept it back. As we are
eating the hosts come around and open the baskets and then distribute plastic
bags, we are expected to take items with us. Our ladies fill our bags insisting
that we take our “doggie bags”. Tyler leaves with 2 large bottles of soda, and
two bags worth of snacks… And we learn that we have sat at the Lape Island
table after all! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For the Kings Birthday there were two parades, one is a
“float parade” various business’, community groups and churches have decorated
floats and a long parade begins through town. All the high schools seem to have
marching bands and in this parade we are treated to three. They do a great job
and even do a little fun band and dance routine. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The second parade is the military marching band and troops,
from the Tongan army and navy. There also was a French Polynesian Navy boat
here and they too marched. It seemed that the whole island was out for this. In
the parade ground we hear (we did not make it there) the King rode around in an
open vehicle to greet the crowd and for pictures. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Ene’io Botanical
Gardens<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anotelie is the owner and curator of this beautiful
botanical garden. He was born on this island and in the early 60’s his family
was awarded a section of land. Being a boy in the family he was awarded 8
acres. As he explains he grew to love plants and when he went off to school he
studied agriculture. He retired as the Minister of Agriculture for Tonga.
During his life he acquired more land around his original 8 acres and in the
1970’s began his dream of developing it into the current botanical garden. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anotelie guides us through the meandering well-kept trails
of the garden; it seems he has a story for each plant. He has marked his
specimens with placards with the botanical names, common Tongan name and if it
is native to Tonga or where it came from. A lot of work has gone into this
garden. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
His family has also built a small restaurant/bar and gift
shop where he sells his vanilla beans and Noni juice. Here you can relax with a
meal and a drink in the view of one of the prettiest bays I have seen in Tonga.
If your travels take you to Vava’u this would be one of the “must do” tours on
your list. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Whale watching and
more snorkeling<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We only have a few more days to spend in Vava’u before we
head north to Niuatoputapu. We head out of Neiafu to Mala Island. Mala Island
is between Utunagake Island and Kapa Island. There is a pretty reef that the
guide books say is good for snorkeling. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is warm and sunny so as soon as we can we get our gear to
check out the reef. We are rewarded with one of the best snorkel spots ever. I
see several fish I have not seen and interesting, colorful sea anomie (spelling
help) type creatures, and several patches of colorful coral. I would put this
little gem in my top 10 spots to snorkel. The anchorage is also picture perfect
and we enjoy a beautiful sunset, we are so impressed that we decide to stay for
another night.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The next day we decide to take a picnic lunch to the nearby
beach, while there we watch our friends Steve and Michele of Citrus Tart
negotiate the narrow shallow passage, and set anchor near us. We dingy over to
say hi and they point out a whale spout close by. Off we go to get a closer
look. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Humpback whales migrate from Antarctica to the warm,
protected waters of Vava’u to calf and breed. You are sure to see them July
through September, and they are just now starting to arrive. Visitors come from
around the world for a chance to swim with them, one of the few places in the
world where you can. There are several companies who are trained and licensed
to take you. It is highly regulated and you are not to swim with them on your
own. But drifting by to watch one is fine if you are careful not to pursue
them. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We determined its direction and position ourselves to drift
down in the same direction. We soon see it (don’t know if it is a boy or girl).
In the 15 or so minutes we get several good looks at it. As you see from the pictures
(thanks Michele) it swims very close to
us as we get a close up view from our dingy. Wow, what a great way to say
goodbye to Vava’u. We will return to Neiafu tomorrow to buy provisions and
check out. Next stop Niuatoputapu.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Tapana Island</b></div>
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<b>Vava'u</b></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxU_IgabWcdI1UoQxcUjToJ55Qrz0I0XapAO41uuRCz1ACrbzQtp0tVFWNKKtxaVYSmgzDD_T4V8xCYEMXAjpFYFrbfiBffg-tXA-iofXlue_N27Cc25jngCyVzQtiVzQWXUf1iOU2UYc4/s1600/DSC_0325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxU_IgabWcdI1UoQxcUjToJ55Qrz0I0XapAO41uuRCz1ACrbzQtp0tVFWNKKtxaVYSmgzDD_T4V8xCYEMXAjpFYFrbfiBffg-tXA-iofXlue_N27Cc25jngCyVzQtiVzQWXUf1iOU2UYc4/s1600/DSC_0325.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wave to the King (yes the King of Tonga is in there)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbURCFuwP9Rv5eCcLQXtJMr4rsGn17-C3jX7Gu53K0r2xjnLlSg_1zruReqosRK2X6761JKXXui1e7MjqVMZ4uSh63SoyDr4txlLUbSkOUkG6lUPMxLTbX1HRHMSSRObcWrsRMtIqSSUCk/s1600/DSC_0316.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbURCFuwP9Rv5eCcLQXtJMr4rsGn17-C3jX7Gu53K0r2xjnLlSg_1zruReqosRK2X6761JKXXui1e7MjqVMZ4uSh63SoyDr4txlLUbSkOUkG6lUPMxLTbX1HRHMSSRObcWrsRMtIqSSUCk/s1600/DSC_0316.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tongan Children waiting to greet the King</td></tr>
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<b>Kings Birthday Celebration</b><br />
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<b>Sunset at Kapa Island</b></div>
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<b>Mala Island</b></div>
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<b>Mala Island Reef</b></div>
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<b>Ene'io Botanical Gardens</b></div>
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<b>Ovalau Island</b></div>
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<b>Swallows Cave</b></div>
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<b>Buggy Tour</b></div>
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<b>Vaka'eitu Island, David and Hinka (Banyon Tree Family)</b></div>
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<br />Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-83692051589643246532014-06-12T15:29:00.002-07:002014-07-07T18:18:35.988-07:00New Zealand to Tonga, including Minerva Reef May 10 - June 3, 2014<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
We finally leave Opua New Zealand on Saturday May 10<sup>th</sup>.
We joined the Island Cruising Association Tonga/Fiji Rally and we are in the
company of about 15 other boats heading north. As part of the rally we will
check in daily with our position and sea conditions. We will also receive
weather updates. As on our passage down to NZ we have also hired a weather
router, Bob McDavitt and will receive updates from him as well. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The weather is rainy and our first 24 hours underway finds
us in squally weather. We are able to dodge most of the squalls but it is cold
and wet. We are in our foulies. The second day is much improved and we soon are
in “passage routine”, by the third day it is warmer and we have a fantastic day
of sailing with good wind and calm seas. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We have a couple of SSB nets that we are checking in with
Gulf Harbor Radio is great, here we get weather updates for our location from
an ex-cruiser and meteorologist that are very helpful. Our friends on Alaeris,
also have a small informal net each evening. Alex does an excellent job on the
weather also. It is on these nets that we soon learn of some adverse weather on
our way. It looks bad enough that we decide to tuck into Minerva Reef about 3
days away. So in order to beat the weather system heading our way we must
maintain 6.5 knots of speed so we motor sail on and off for the next few days.
We arrive in Minerva Reef on Thursday morning, May 15, way ahead of the
“looming weather system”. It is also our 31<sup>st</sup> wedding anniversary,
how many couples get to spend and anniversary is such a remarkable place! Love
you Mel. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Friday, May and have
a nice walk around and good thing we did then as the next day finds Minerva
smack dab in the middle of a squash zone, winds pick up to a steady 25-30 knots,
with gusts even higher. There are now 25 boats safely tucked in. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The storm lasts for several days, but we stay safe here.
Even the Tongan navy does not want to be out in the storm and they are anchored
here too. There are now 27 boats here all waiting for this to pass through so
we can be on our way again. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Monday arrives with less wind and a little sun. A reef party
is organized and all us cabin fevered cruisers meet on the reef for a happy
hour happy to be off our boats. The NZ Orion plane visits Minerva, and we all
take turns checking in with our boat name, call sign etc. They also do a low
pass for us so we all can take pictures. Gulf Harbor radio is calling for
better weather so we are planning to leave tomorrow. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We raise anchor and leave Minerva Reef late morning heading
to the Hapai, most of the boats are also leaving. Even though we did not plan
on another stop in Minerva we are so glad that it was there and offered such
good protection. It is one of those magical places and we feel fortunate that
we have been able to experience it twice. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our three day passage to the Ha’apai group, Tonga is a mixed
bag. As we cannot make it to Pangai (where you clear into the country) by dark
we decide to anchor at Ha’afeva Island. The next day we make our way to Pangai
and formally check into the country. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our original plan was to spend 2 weeks in the Ha’apai group
prior to heading to the Vava’u group where we are leaving Mazu to return home
for a few weeks for Graduations. But with our late departure from Opua and our
stop in Minerva has eaten that time, so in the end we only stay a few days. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our first stop is Uoleva Island, a very pretty anchorage. It
is here that the ICA rally officially ends. The little, Uoleva Yacht Club hosts
a BBQ. We enjoy the meal and drinks with the other ICA boat attending. We are
the only non-Kiwi boat there. We have made new friends which is always fun. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We spend one more night a Uoleva then head back to Ha’afeva
where we hope to meet up with our friend, Pollo and her nephews. We met them
last year and have brought them some gifts of fishing gear and school supplies.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We arrive at Pollo’s home and are greeted by her Mother.
Pollo and the boys are at the plantation she says, and Pollo’s cousin escorts
us to see her. It is a long walk to their plantation where we find her with her
nephews and Father. We have a nice visit and they walk us back to the wharf,
carrying the two large yams they have given us. She asks for a book which we go
and get for her. It was great seeing her again. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We raise anchor for our overnight sail to Vava’u. We are
expecting (as predicted) light wind sail. We are slammed with 30 knot winds and
rough seas, all night. One of the worse passages, but at least it was quick and
we are soon hooked on a mooring ball in front of the Aquarium Café. Tonight,
cold beer and a meal off the boat!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We are returning home for sons Spencer’s graduation from
college and for our grandsons High School Graduation. Mazu is safe and sound on
a mooring being cared for by Sheri and Larry of the Ark gallery. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now for the long flight home. When we return we will bring
Tyler our grandson back with us. He will sail with us here in Tonga and on to
Fiji. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUbnCMY16IG1TITx_YRHg9EDdmYkvgV2VgYdwJRr-EvjZKg_WGkyED47IkFtjz9AwslyLsCs3OwdKoEY6oeuoQF1cWnFHUzE5z_QleguavQwkydZIwlucVqpeCNzlxv5igTt5B6zBW7icC/s1600/1-P1000401.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUbnCMY16IG1TITx_YRHg9EDdmYkvgV2VgYdwJRr-EvjZKg_WGkyED47IkFtjz9AwslyLsCs3OwdKoEY6oeuoQF1cWnFHUzE5z_QleguavQwkydZIwlucVqpeCNzlxv5igTt5B6zBW7icC/s1600/1-P1000401.JPG" height="400" width="285" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mel on Minerva Reef</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVDJg3_9LZAvXgAtDAval-PiIG7Y7afBcW8zbWTyuPm9fHYc1gE2hd6mSC7w5iIiUxUHkAfJUEwhJTmIe3ILVp6xUKfk0gA5ixL5y5rIlLnboNHtrUexm0W_oFqVwhyKPJAtf3RKGZU052/s1600/1-P1000438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVDJg3_9LZAvXgAtDAval-PiIG7Y7afBcW8zbWTyuPm9fHYc1gE2hd6mSC7w5iIiUxUHkAfJUEwhJTmIe3ILVp6xUKfk0gA5ixL5y5rIlLnboNHtrUexm0W_oFqVwhyKPJAtf3RKGZU052/s1600/1-P1000438.JPG" height="285" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Minerva Reef (lagoon side)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cruiser Reef Party</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mel with our friends Brett and Stacey from Bella Vita</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Zealand Search and Rescue plane paid us a visit at Minerva Reef</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tongan Beach Party</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Uoleva Yacht Club</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ha'a pai Beach</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading to the beach on a Saturday afternoon</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ha'a pai Sunset Uoleva Island</td></tr>
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<br />Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-6141838183928645592014-04-21T18:48:00.001-07:002014-04-21T18:48:22.122-07:00Great Barrier Island: March 30th to April 8th <span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Aotea is the Maori name for Great Barrier Island. Capt. Cook
named it in 1769 for the shelter and protection it provides to the Hauraki Gulf.
The island is only about 55 miles from Auckland but it could not be more
different. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Rugged and remote it has an abundance of native forest,
marine life and birds. It is part of the Hauraki Gulf Marine park system and
protected because its natural and cultural heritage is rich, divers and unique.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Also, rich in history, from the 1840’s the island’s natural resource
has attracted European settlement. A number of industries exploited the
island’s forest, minerals and migrating whales. Copper was mined here along
with gold and silver. The Kauri forests were logged, only a few original kauri forests
survived. The Great Barrier Island was also the site of a number of shipwrecks
and you can see two grave sites mark these terrible disasters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our first “port of call” on GBI is on the southern tip at
Tryphena Harbor. This is the main ferry port for folks coming from the main
land. There is a small village with a couple of restaurants, and bar, store and
post office. It is also home to the GBI Social Club, with pool table, food and
movies on Monday nights. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The next stop for us is Whangaparpara Harbour. ( here the wh
makes the f sound so it is pronounced, faan-guh-para-para).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is here that you can see the remains of
the old whaling station and timber mill. Also in this very lovely bay are a
wharf and the Great Barrier Island Lodge. A great place for dinner and drinks.
We have a wonderful meal here, the managers are very nice and have traveled to
the states and knew my home town of Santa Cruz and knew much of the Northwest
as they traveled from California to Alaska. We anchored in graveyard bay, and
yes there is a small “pioneer” type grave yard with about a half dozen grave
sites. The oldest we saw was from 1910. From here we can hear all the exotic
birds, the kaka a large brown noisy parrot, the ever changing song of the tui
bird and the wekas, the “chickens” of NZ as the Māori and settlers both used
them for meat and eggs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We then sail to the large much protected Port FitzRoy
Harbour. This port is made up of many different bays and it is fun to explore.
In Kiwiriki Bay we are befriended by a pair of Pateke (Brown Teal) ducks. The
Pateke are among the rarest ducks in the world. GBI is home to almost
two-thirds of the remaining world population. They swim (and beg for food)
around us for two days. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I have a goal of catching a snapper while I am here. For
snapper you have to jig for them and one of the places I am told where you will
have success in near one of the many mussel farms here. Mel drives me out to
one in the dingy; I jig and jig no luck… I have caught a couple of Kahawai
which are good to eat but the snapper is illusive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We move to Rarohara Bay as we are going on a
tour the next day. Tom and Kim from Exit Strategy will meet us here and go with
us. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As part of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park system much work is
being done to restore the native vegetation and bird life on GBI. One project
here Glenfern Sanctuary. A privately owned pest fenced sanctuary. Started by business
man and adventurer, Tony Bouzaid, it is committed to creating a safe haven for
native species. We take a guided tour of Glenfern and learn how this project is
providing pest free (or nearly) environments in its efforts to preserve and
restore native birds and forest. We walk through regenerating old growth forest
of Kanuka, Manuka, Puriri and Kauri trees. We even get to cross over a
suspension bridge into the canopy of a 600 year old Kauri tree. A very
beautiful and informative tour. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">After our tour at Glenfern we meet with our tour guide for
the day, Steve of Go Great Barrier Tours is set to take us around the island.
Steve has lived on GBI for 20 plus years. He is a great guide and gives us the
history from Maori times through present. GBI residents (about 700 full time)
are an independent and self-sustaining lot. While it has been offered many
times, there is no cable power here. All residents produce their own power
through solar, wind, and generators.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
tour the magnificent east side of the island with its beautiful beaches and
vistas. Surfers come from all over New Zealand to ride these waves. We are so
glad we took this tour as it is difficult to sail around this side of the
island and the seas and winds are rarely favorable. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Too soon our time at GBI is up. We are leaving on the April
8<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> we leave to start our trip to Opua and make final preparations
for our May departure for Tonga. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Another trip to GBI is on our must do list when we return as
we have just scratch the surface of this unique island. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-30697898885772909792014-04-21T18:30:00.001-07:002014-04-21T18:30:39.581-07:00Kawau Island March 25-30<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">After a very blustery sail from Waiheke Island we arrive at
Kawau Island and anchor in Mansion House Bay. Kawau Island is north of Auckland
in Hauriaki Gulf. The island was once a mining settlement (mid 1800’s) and
later became the home of New Zealand Governor George Grey (1862). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Mansion house was first built as the mining
superintendent’s home during Kawau’s copper mining days. After Gov. Grey purchased
the home he enlarged it as pictured. He was a collector of plants and animals
as was common for wealthy Victorian gentlemen. He planted hundreds of different
trees and plants and introduced many exotic and native animal species to the island,
including zebras (they all died because it was too cold for them), peacocks and
wallabies, (they are still around). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Of course this caused havoc to the native species of plants
and animals and work now continues to restore the natural vegetation in the
reserve. T</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">he house and grounds are now a Historic
Reserve administrated by the Department of Conservation. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We toured the house and it is beautifully restored
with period furniture and artwork, all very interesting, (no pictures were
allowed so none on the blog).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Like most of the island here there are numerous walking
trails and we spend a couple of days exploring the interesting floral/fauna and views they
provided. Many of the trails have you imagining you are walking through a
forest primeval, with a canopy of massive fernwoods, pine and <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Manuka trees. One trail was especially
interesting as it showcases a very large Redwood tree planted by Gov. Grey in
1864. I hope the pictures I post will do it justice. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We heard from a kiwi friend of ours that if you go to shore
at dusk you can perhaps see the wallabies as they forage for food. With camera in hand we head to shore.
As there is a wallaby fence around the grounds we hike out beyond it, nothing….
I then leave Mel and hike further up the trail while he stays put. I am gone
for about 10 minutes and when I come back he has seen two. We then continue to
stroll through the open field (where they are said to come out) but nothing. So
I with the camera missed out. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">After a couple of days exploring here we sail out to North
Bay. On the way we take a day sail to test out our new light air sail, it works
great. Along the way we see Orca’s two pairs of mother and baby, and our first
sighting of blue penguins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I get a
couple of great shots of the Orca’s but the penguins are shy so the picture is
not so great. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We settle in at North Cove as we have a very special
invitation to meet Lin and Larry Pardey. If you are a cruiser you may have
heard of this couple. They have written several books and articles on world
cruising. They live here on Kawau Island and we meet them for drinks at their
home. They have a lovely home overlooking this beautiful bay. We have a nice
evening sharing experiences and getting to know each other. While they may have
several thousand of sea miles under their keel and us, uhh, not nearly as many, we
still have common experiences to share and we certainly listened to
their words of experience. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
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Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-49629414796360305432014-03-26T21:25:00.002-07:002014-03-26T21:25:55.051-07:00Waiheke Island (again, this time on Mazu) March 18 - 25th
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Yea! We are back in the water again. After many delays,
umpteen dollars and cyclone Lusi, Mazu made it back in the water. We were so
glad to have our home floating again. I turned on the freezer and fridge (items
we could not use while out of the water as we have a “keeled-cooled” system)
and it appeared that all systems were a go. Unfortunately the next morning I
noticed that the fridge was no longer cool. Darn we forgot that it was on the
frits before we left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A refrigeration
company was called and a service man (Ross, who also is a fishing expert and
gave me lots of advice on fishing) figured out the issue and we soon were
up and cooling again. A run to the store for provisions and we were ready to
go. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our first shake down cruise was to Waiheke Island. We decide to
motor so we could concentrate on the ins and outs of our new chart-plotter;
soon we are nicely tucked into a nice anchorage on the west side of Onetangie
Bay. We celebrate with a couple of cold beers and enjoy the sunset and burgers
off the grill, now we are really living again. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The next day I am anxious to try out my new fishing lures, I
want to catch a snapper which I hear are everywhere here, we get a late start
and miss the prime fishing time, no fish, but we get a nice dingy cruise in. We then
move over to the East side of the bay and meet up with our friends on Double
Diamond and Exit Strategy. We have drinks on Mazu then meet on DD for and tasty
dinner, great wine and a spectacular sunset. Our plan is to go to shore
tomorrow to walk to some of the small wineries that make Waiheke a popular
tourist destination. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Waiheke walking wine
tour</b>:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Melody and Jeff pick me up in the morning; Mel is sitting
this excursion out as he is not really into wine. After a nice lunch we start
our hike up to the winery trail. While the steps up are steep we are rewarded
with a great view of Onetangi Bay. We meander down a few streets and soon find
the correct road to the first winery. We do not stay as the tasting room is not
open only the restaurant. Here is where it gets fun. The trail to the next
winery is through the vineyards. It is interesting to see the grapes
and vines up close. Soon we arrive at Obsidian Winery. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Obsidian winery, like most on Waiheke is very small, but
they produce all their own grapes and produce the wine themselves. We are well
taken care of and sample several different wines. Each one is very good. It is
hard to make a choice, but I purchase a bottle of their Chardonnay. We were
then off through the vineyards again to the next. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Waiheke is a very hilly island and parts of the trail is
very steep, but it is very pretty and soon we are at Stonyridge winery.
The setting is very pretty so we sit and have a glass of water. The staff does
not seem to notice us and as it is running late we decide to carry on to the
next place. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Wild on Waiheke winery and brewery is unique
as they have skeet shooting and archery as activities you can participate in
while you sample their beers and/or wines, some combination. Unfortunately they
are closed when we arrive, so no shooting for us. They do let us have a beer
and relax. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The bus stop is right outside their place so we take the bus
back to Onetangi Beach. Our little group will split up in the morning with
Double Diamond and Exit Strategy going on to other anchorages. We will stay for
another day while we decide where to go next. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here are some pictures from Waiheke Island:</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRuwIPkMc6T_Ir38jM1Z_3c6tyPERCyljiKeUMnk4zPS_m8SwhAK0iFTyK-h7NyXoOzSEddYcLmbPhyphenhyphenvSrCvwzUJU2zaPPlp7ATS0rkqk2yTNIC7teEh9_BeHLfR1Iu0O2oHm9p0iFn7qm/s1600/P1000204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRuwIPkMc6T_Ir38jM1Z_3c6tyPERCyljiKeUMnk4zPS_m8SwhAK0iFTyK-h7NyXoOzSEddYcLmbPhyphenhyphenvSrCvwzUJU2zaPPlp7ATS0rkqk2yTNIC7teEh9_BeHLfR1Iu0O2oHm9p0iFn7qm/s1600/P1000204.JPG" height="301" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stonyridge Winery</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr8PoLnXBl587h9KDwQcmvpaVBVoq00kLOIYnw500ky4m8ikbw7eHfnYw_SZ7YBrNf0PFNrQBFlRxP1JeW1uMXMneAVAeKlB9pSwtKUxCe1vZCvm-Zzrej8qllnJ0KN6YFr6_Xqm8yMzIN/s1600/P1000202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr8PoLnXBl587h9KDwQcmvpaVBVoq00kLOIYnw500ky4m8ikbw7eHfnYw_SZ7YBrNf0PFNrQBFlRxP1JeW1uMXMneAVAeKlB9pSwtKUxCe1vZCvm-Zzrej8qllnJ0KN6YFr6_Xqm8yMzIN/s1600/P1000202.JPG" height="250" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stonyridge Croquette Club</td></tr>
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Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-54476918261576325452014-03-16T20:34:00.000-07:002014-03-16T20:45:04.298-07:00Waiheke Island, Pasifika Festival, and Cyclone Lusi: Auckland New Zealand February 16 - March 15 2014<br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After two months home to visit family and friends, we are
now back in New Zealand. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mazu was left “on the hard” at Half Moon Bay Marina. We had
new bottom paint applied installed new chart plotters and various other
maintenance items done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Luckily there is
a small motel right next to the marina so we did not have to always stay on the
boat while it was in the dusty yard. We expected to be on the hard for the
first two week of our return but as always, things took longer than we thought.
So here we are still on the hard, waiting to splash, any day now.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">On weekends we try to have some fun. One day we took the
ferry from here to Waiheke Island. Let me back up a bit. Auckland is in an area
called the Hauraki Gulf. There are many islands in this area most accessible by
the ferry system here. Or for us just a short sail away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Waiheke Island:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the 70’s Waiheke
Island was a mecca for hippies and bohemian artists, now it is a popular Aucklander
get-away, with its many wineries, long sandy beaches, and historic
village.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The island is quite large and
very hilly. It will be our first time driving on the wrong side of the road as
we have rented a car for the day. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our first stop is the Saturday Market in the town of Osted,
a mix of yard sale and crafts, with lots of food booths thrown in. I purchase
some yummy local honey. We are then off to circumnavigate the island by car.
This proves to be very stressful for both of us, as the roads are very narrow
with no shoulder, and it is after all Mel’s first time driving on the wrong
side. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We manage to have a great lunch at Onetangi beach. We see
several boats at anchor here it looks like a great place to hang out. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The scenery is spectacular with many views of
the Hauraki Gulf and Auckland City. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Pasfika Festival:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As New Zealand is home to the largest Polynesian population
in the world it hosts a yearly celebration of Pacific Island culture, the
largest one in the world. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Western Springs Park a very large park in Auckland is
transformed into 11 Pacific Island villages where you can experience the food, music,
arts/crafts, and dance of each island. Each village has its own stage, for
performances, and market area where you can buy food or local crafts. Many of
the islands represented were ones we have visited on our way here. It was fun
to hear the music, see the dances and the craft works. We also got to “preview”
Fiji, where we plan to sail this season. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">For the first time Hawaii was represented. We were treated
with a performance by the world famous Hawaiian singer/songwriter/guitar player
Keola Beamer, a highlight of the day!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cyclone Lusi:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We sailed to New Zealand to get out of the cyclone “belt” of
the Pacific Islands, so we were surprised to read that one was heading our
direction… yikes!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mazu is still sitting on the hardstands out of the water.
While she is ok to go back in we decide that with a lack of a secured marina
slip our best bet is to keep her in the hardstands while we high tail it to a
motel for a few days. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The wind blew and it rained a bunch but all in all Lusi was
less of a hit as predicted. Still I was glad not to be on the boat during those
high winds. As we rode around the bus after the worst day we were surprised to
see very little wind damage and /or debris on the roads. And best of all our
boat was safe and sound. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Next week we will finally return to the water, get our
barring’s and start cruising again…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9o0C4PLdoPSs1RNwqFVvI3gw0Zyd2cNWFV1xHbKwVdox5XjdBMWhyXZwOSmeBe1wIKgcpIF9T867_j8AM4rB0AV_Dn9kOx70t6fGa3GbKQWl867l_qTKe-f3z8o-MSOyWgjz5w3D_jWFd/s1600/DSC_0397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9o0C4PLdoPSs1RNwqFVvI3gw0Zyd2cNWFV1xHbKwVdox5XjdBMWhyXZwOSmeBe1wIKgcpIF9T867_j8AM4rB0AV_Dn9kOx70t6fGa3GbKQWl867l_qTKe-f3z8o-MSOyWgjz5w3D_jWFd/s1600/DSC_0397.JPG" height="153" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Zealand Sunset</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-44785090466202169142014-01-27T19:17:00.000-08:002014-01-27T19:17:06.172-08:00A lot has happened. We crossed the Pacific Ocean and made our way to New Zealand. You can see all our South Pacific adventures at www.sailblogs.com/member/mazuadventures.com<br />
<br />
I will soon return this blog as we continue our exploration of New Zealand and the South Pacific.Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-38397083759745214262013-03-12T14:22:00.002-07:002013-03-12T14:22:53.325-07:00Isla Isabel<br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
February 2013<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We left Mazatlan on Presidents day, on a 2 day
passage to La Cruz via Isla Isabel. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I have wanted to stop on Isla Isabel for while as everyone says it is not to be missed and it defiantly was on
my list of “must do” before we left Mexico.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Isla Isabela is a remote island that is a bird rookery. Here you will
see nesting Frigate and Bobbies. The cool part is that the birds do not think
of you as a threat so you can walk right up to the nests and the babies. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We arrived early in the morning and anchored near the
fishing camp, lowered the dingy and went to explore. I think the pictures will
speak for themselves of this remarkable site. In addition to all the birds
there are LOTS of iguana’s and other lizards, a bit disconcerting <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>as you walk through the grass and hear them
scurry away under your feet!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We spend the rest of the day resting up for our next
overnight sail to La Cruz. We have an uneventful passage (no wind so a motor
ride). We anchor at the lovely Punta Mita for two days before heading into the marina
at La Cruz. La Cruz is one of our favorite places in Mexico, and we feel right
at home. Sadly<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>this is where we will end
our time in Mexico. We plan on setting sail for the South Pacific at the end of
March. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">More on that in the next blog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-18971242857126303412012-12-13T16:08:00.000-08:002012-12-13T16:08:22.840-08:00Towns, Squares and Bays<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-48332092554043058482012-12-13T15:42:00.000-08:002012-12-13T15:42:44.920-08:00Churches <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">San Blas</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz8raMXXqr-LBCRj277JHreosf5uRM7zPtsQspvYlchAFd_dCvibX_XKoeniTQMx1BTJM-Q4WfA6JQbpM73qsZOtX6gWhyz4om9D3Rii-wK7fJ0ZuFNOY09Iy007irC_hkWFefGND9UHH3/s1600/Loretto+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz8raMXXqr-LBCRj277JHreosf5uRM7zPtsQspvYlchAFd_dCvibX_XKoeniTQMx1BTJM-Q4WfA6JQbpM73qsZOtX6gWhyz4om9D3Rii-wK7fJ0ZuFNOY09Iy007irC_hkWFefGND9UHH3/s400/Loretto+1.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loretto</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-8881177240586439372012-12-13T15:21:00.000-08:002012-12-13T15:21:00.488-08:00Dolphins and other friends<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-37754642823033056072012-12-13T15:01:00.000-08:002012-12-13T15:01:42.255-08:00People<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-29769699980249260042012-12-13T14:16:00.000-08:002012-12-13T14:16:48.246-08:00Pictures of MexicoAs our time in Mexico comes to an end I wanted to post some pictures that I have that are not in previous blogs. <br />
The next few postings are these pictures: <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Mexico Sunsets:</span><br />
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Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-3643275928485506192012-12-13T12:55:00.000-08:002012-12-13T12:55:03.640-08:00Sea of Cortez Spring 2012 (cut short)We are finally ready to make our way up in to Sea of Cortez again. We plan on meeting Judy Cole in Loretto in May. In the mean time we will visit our favorite places, find new anchorages, and new places to explore. <br />
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We are also looking forward to breaking in our new dinghy. <br />
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Before we left we had word that Mel's lung surgery date may moved up, so we head up with a shortened schedule.<br />
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We explore estuaries, kyak and fish in Augua Verde and make our way to Loretto where we will be able to access the Internet. <br />
In Loretto we learn Mel's surgery is moved to May 20th !!! wow only 2 weeks away. Our only choice is to hurry back to La Paz, missing our time with Judy and get Mazu ready for the summer hurricane season. <br />
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An over night trip gets us back to Marina de La Paz, and the work begins. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinner and Dancing with Renia and Bill in La Paz</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Estuary Tour with Captain Mel</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mel relaxing with "Bird"<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dr.Bryson performs minor surgery. Those dental tools come in handy</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mazu is put to bed for the summer</td></tr>
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Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-9297216140941292912012-10-14T08:13:00.001-07:002013-01-05T12:15:43.266-08:00New sailing "season"Dear Friends and Family,<br />
In October Mel and I returned to La Paz Mexico where Mazu rested over the summer. As we worked to get her ready for sailing Mel became ill. We had to return to Oregon to sort it all out. It turns out that he had an abcess from a leaking appendix. <br />
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After that issue was resolved we returned to La Paz to sail MAZU to Mazatlan for a haul-out appointment. Here she is waiting for us to return from Oregon (yes, we came home again for the holidays) to complete the haul-out work.<br />
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Just to keep it interesting we must return to Oregon at the end of January for what we hope will be the last time as Mel will have his appendix removed.<br />
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We then hope to start our new adventures on Mazu. Our plan is to cross the Pacific and contiue our journey in the South Pacific Islands. If all the planets align we will "puddle jump" sometime in March of 2013. <br />
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I have found a blog site that will allow me to post even while crossing the Pacific, using my SSB radio, so I will soon change over to that blog site. When it is up a running I will post the address here. If I have your email address I will also be sending you and email. <br />
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In the mean time I will finnish off Mexico on this blog site, so stay tuned....Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-26200638416440132612012-04-19T14:21:00.004-07:002012-04-19T14:54:35.223-07:00Zihuatanejo to Bahia Santiago February 23rd- March 7th 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv_EkO_1w055i7BlMG0iry-MI3R8KKQFupPWKn4qm5225y6-OZ0YnHUlfgiPNktnQafLCQniPT7uiZteCx1MmrY_oPfvcm4EcBKkDXBhHiZ0rMSbv5C-Nc9sNO2pOdmuEJqKARww7q2zHI/s1600/P1030052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv_EkO_1w055i7BlMG0iry-MI3R8KKQFupPWKn4qm5225y6-OZ0YnHUlfgiPNktnQafLCQniPT7uiZteCx1MmrY_oPfvcm4EcBKkDXBhHiZ0rMSbv5C-Nc9sNO2pOdmuEJqKARww7q2zHI/s400/P1030052.JPG" width="286" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXA3E7V8WV9vupcWStIdxq_9Mdap1wTc0fWt3tvxhb455oGWj2idCfP8bWv-LgxBb9IuERMskTf0tcPCubOqjxcn0mltY9kh9b0Q9-JmMqWk6qc0TPY8xSsYZ4CSDa-__DT4Ff-T82UUV9/s1600/P1030038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXA3E7V8WV9vupcWStIdxq_9Mdap1wTc0fWt3tvxhb455oGWj2idCfP8bWv-LgxBb9IuERMskTf0tcPCubOqjxcn0mltY9kh9b0Q9-JmMqWk6qc0TPY8xSsYZ4CSDa-__DT4Ff-T82UUV9/s200/P1030038.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX946mLuBGA8jfKwd8XsgWsSDbODhhPTP9XA2YZOblieyc6PUIftyOy9QhJxqz9FBnqGSAeTeml_3GkTk7jsVVYLE-pjB5wXzA7Qc43CAKpPYVOwmFmCnblrb-snud9uiWqnU49a6NFO_k/s1600/P1030062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX946mLuBGA8jfKwd8XsgWsSDbODhhPTP9XA2YZOblieyc6PUIftyOy9QhJxqz9FBnqGSAeTeml_3GkTk7jsVVYLE-pjB5wXzA7Qc43CAKpPYVOwmFmCnblrb-snud9uiWqnU49a6NFO_k/s400/P1030062.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg8Nv5pNeaoJAgLsOmoizjLlIsL0VNPGSf4WSgk_T8kSE269gKHCNxjZOfZpzVezmFX80YB12lib_jzUQp-_7_8vugDtxz993Qlm_1Lhp5-k5DpZ3HqnvrV56Q4pMy1Sgm9mhauGdJn6_J/s1600/P1030040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg8Nv5pNeaoJAgLsOmoizjLlIsL0VNPGSf4WSgk_T8kSE269gKHCNxjZOfZpzVezmFX80YB12lib_jzUQp-_7_8vugDtxz993Qlm_1Lhp5-k5DpZ3HqnvrV56Q4pMy1Sgm9mhauGdJn6_J/s200/P1030040.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDfYvwmLy6fo76dsre01XUV0WsEtrc1j8WCQV_X7h7ffJIgvxZpFFUCRDj5n7aUgL2NPxWysGVEaMFJThvfr25HqqD2OsYF9cVRynukuw5u_LqBQBbRfLGcdzgwQEdZm8FNTg_hin7bTfF/s1600/P1030027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDfYvwmLy6fo76dsre01XUV0WsEtrc1j8WCQV_X7h7ffJIgvxZpFFUCRDj5n7aUgL2NPxWysGVEaMFJThvfr25HqqD2OsYF9cVRynukuw5u_LqBQBbRfLGcdzgwQEdZm8FNTg_hin7bTfF/s400/P1030027.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmKFtssYFjJE5Vfscj-v_0jvYJf_O3swFYNwU8vej3wRpbBBx7OkfFPDAHepAYcLQR6dtPGQiZRt820EC_lUZ_RxQgeCoz89plbZn9OOkM_6dWpLgvjX5T33N3eyyhtfsZ1cvPzhvgnT7m/s1600/P1030010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmKFtssYFjJE5Vfscj-v_0jvYJf_O3swFYNwU8vej3wRpbBBx7OkfFPDAHepAYcLQR6dtPGQiZRt820EC_lUZ_RxQgeCoz89plbZn9OOkM_6dWpLgvjX5T33N3eyyhtfsZ1cvPzhvgnT7m/s320/P1030010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<strong><u>Goodbye Zihuatanejo</u></strong>:<br />
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The highlight of our last week in Zihuatanejo is a visit with Kristine and the girls (Mel’s daughter and our 2 granddaughters, Katie and Mary). They are in Ixtapa at Club Med for their annual vacation with Kristine’s friend Jen and her family. We have a nice lunch on the beach and have the girls over for a sleep-over on Mazu. <br />
We then motored to the marina in Ixtapa to spend a few days getting the boat and us ready for our return trip north. Mel and I both come down with bad colds so we postpone our departure for a few days. Soon enough we are better and it is time to go. I head to the grocery store to provision (bus there, taxi home) and we are ready to leave. <br />
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We head out of Ixtapa Marina in the morning on February 23rd, heading for Bahia Santiago (near Manzanillo) where we hope to meet up with our friends Ned and Carol on Franny B and Larry and Danice on Ladara Star. There is no wind to start so we are motoring. Soon we hear a call on the VHF from our friends on Camelot. They are passing by us heading south on their way to South America. We are sorry that we did not get to see them, but we had a nice chat on the VHF. They let us know that the wind will be picking up as we head north. <br />
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We soon are able to raise our sails and turn off the noisy engine, ahhhhh, this is what it is all about, the sails set right the sound of the boat through the water, and just the sailing silence that we enjoy so much. <br />
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Just as we were settled back in with the lines stowed and ready to relax, we hear a Mexican voice on the radio hailing the sailing vessel at coordinates that are close to us. This is all in Spanish mind you, and then I hear him again, this time in broken English, again calling for the sailing vessel. Mel says, “well there is a big grey ship over on our starboard side, could it be the Navy?” I get on the VHF and yes, it is the navy requesting to board our vessel. Down come the sails, on with the motor as we slow to await their launch to arrive. <br />
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A panga type boat comes and makes several circles around us taking pictures. There are about 8 seamen and an officer. They are all armed. They then pull up and the officer and one armed seaman climb up onto the boat. Now mind you the seas are not calm and we are rolling and pitching all over. But they get on and do not bump into Mazu. <br />
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The officer asks if we speak Spanish, I say very little, he says he speaks very little English. He has a clip board and starts to request information. We had heard from other cruisers what most likely they were going to ask for so I had it all ready. They wanted to see our boat documentation and our passports. He then asked if we had any guns. No we said. He then wanted to look down below. I went with him. He had me open various closets and storage areas. He would just look in and say ok. He again asked if we had any guns. I said no. He then said that the sea can be very dangerous and if we needed any help to call on the radio for the Navy and they will come. He then apologized for the dirty shoe print on the deck and said good-bye. That was it and back to their ship they went. <br />
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By this time the seas were building, it was going to be dark soon and the winds had changed direction so we decided that we would just motor (we were still not fully recovered from our colds and did not have the energy to sail). We did not know that this would prove to be a really good choice. <br />
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As the sun went down the seas and winds continued to build. We were heading directly into the seas and were being bashed about. Water was splashing over the bow and sometimes even into the cock pit. The wind was a constant 25-28 knots with gusts up to 35 knots. We continued in this way all night and into the morning before it settled some. We were very happy to see the calm anchorage of Santiago. We set the hook and promptly took a long nap. I have to say this was the worse 24 hours I have had on a boat. I was never afraid, just sick, and very uncomfortable. As always we are sure to clip ourselves in when we are on watch and wear our lifejackets. <br />
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<strong><u>Bummer in Santiago:</u></strong><br />
<strong><u></u></strong>Franny B is in the bay and we have a great visit with them that evening. We make plans to go to the Saturday market the next morning. Here we are able to purchase all kinds of produce, gifts, kitchen items, clothes, you name it. Ned and Carol and I have a great day. <br />
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When I get back we see Ladara Star in the anchorage, it is good to see them. It is such a small world. Larry is a retired dentist from Springfield just like Mel. It is funny that we meet them here in Mexico. We look forward to spending time with them here. We all enjoy beers and a meal on the beach palapa restaurant. We enjoy the “battle of the bands” as there are several small traveling bands that play for tips, going from restaurant to restaurant. You will hear the tuba’s play all day and into the night.<br />
Well our quiet happy time is short lived. <br />
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When we got up on Sunday morning, Mel discovers that our dinghy with motor and all are gone! We have help to make a search. Carol walks the beach and Mel and I raise anchor and search the rest of the bay and out in the sea. About a mile or so from our anchor spot we find the remains of the dinghy towing bridle floating in the water, it has been cut. We are now sure that it was stolen and for sure not to be seen again by us. <br />
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Later that day we bum a ride with Larry and Danice and go to shore. Word travels fast and many know of the theft. Even the waiter, Don Jose is very upset about it. When he learns that it was our dinghy he calls the police and gets them to the restaurant to talk with us. They suggested that we make a report at the station in Manzinillo. Don Jose offers to take us the next morning as it is his day off. So we make plans to meet him in the morning at the restaurant. <br />
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We meet Don Jose at 8 a.m. and drive to the main police station. Here we “sign in”, and wait. When it is finally our turn, the officer will only let Don Jose and Mel it. So I wait outside. Soon they come back out. It seems the officer cannot take his report as he does not speak English and Mel does not speak Spanish. Don Jose calls a friend who agrees to come and help us. Well after 5 hours we have a police report, and a promise from the officer that they will investigate. The next day I am reading the report and discover that he wrote our phone number down incorrectly. We have a friend call the station but to change it we must return to the main office. Forget it. <br />
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One thing Mel knows how to do it is how to get parts to where ever he is. We soon find a shop where he can order us in a replacement motor (the same one we had). Ned can bring down misc. parts we need when he flys home for a week so that is taken care of. We decide that our best bet is to wait to purchase a replacement dinghy in Puerto Vallarta. So while we are staying longer in Bahia Santiago it is a good chance to relax and do lots of kayaking and exploring. <br />
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<strong><u>Colima:</u></strong><br />
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</u></strong>I have decided to go with Larry and Danice on an inland trip to Colima to see the volcano and the ruins. We are picked up at the beach restaurant and in a 10 passenger van we take off with our guide, Danny. <br />
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Colima is about 2 hours from Santiago/Manzanillo. Colima is the capital of the state of Colima. There is a VERY pretty square, and we tour a nice small museum. We then head out to see the still active volcano. The guide takes us to a great spot to get a great picture of it. As it would take too long we do not go up to the top. <br />
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Our next stop is the newly discovered Aztec era ruins. The story is they were expanding the main highway out of Colima a few years ago, when the ruins were discovered. <br />
It was a fun, long and very interesting day.<br />
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We will leave Bahia Santiago and head to Barra de Navidad on March 8th as we continue to make our way north.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQoK-svMkHUJnJUUKd0eT_BVqcaFGWKPBpEa4Cbv3oalzV5gU9XKJ9uMRqzXSZN2fvrXo92Kd6pGrbbnvIVEjeNzobp02hrxh5UGQXWQe_dunlmcOniwGMeepJIJX9hkcmbkDHScybkKpJ/s1600/P1020989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQoK-svMkHUJnJUUKd0eT_BVqcaFGWKPBpEa4Cbv3oalzV5gU9XKJ9uMRqzXSZN2fvrXo92Kd6pGrbbnvIVEjeNzobp02hrxh5UGQXWQe_dunlmcOniwGMeepJIJX9hkcmbkDHScybkKpJ/s320/P1020989.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joaquin and Family</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz5FJBxmhUm1ztasubFyY1fSnWCFwwKr5t3AfDZOhA-_iN9u55NvZAWCp0W_Rm67MmffyM13hJNCbiKyZB0vViV-E9AFW5dNwtawkB-JI5T8PMN25Ca3FAeNJiyVDmnBwzIzUuMPI4GzX7/s1600/P1020987.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz5FJBxmhUm1ztasubFyY1fSnWCFwwKr5t3AfDZOhA-_iN9u55NvZAWCp0W_Rm67MmffyM13hJNCbiKyZB0vViV-E9AFW5dNwtawkB-JI5T8PMN25Ca3FAeNJiyVDmnBwzIzUuMPI4GzX7/s320/P1020987.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim14hw0_44fgmRvHUff-EFwAS0XO0CLTcLQrhJ1MI6_-bsIbGPWj7xBDRMp1TiQ2_zeSNy9Nuvl5uw8ESiYu3zQBo36iW4iiMiiaaXFkOLVJLz4kloj4yd3GuuwmRn5VH0WtiVNQ_k7Y_J/s1600/P1020872.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; 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<strong>Nuera Italia, Uruapan, San Juan Nuevo, Santa Clara, Paracuaro</strong><br />
<br />
<strong><br />
</strong>When we set out on this sailing adventure I was excited to see places in a different way really see not only the country but the people and its culture. I feel that with this trip we achieved this experience. <br />
We met our friend Joaquin last year in Ixtapa where he worked as a waiter. While we were at his restaurant we overheard him say he lived in Tillamook Oregon. Well that is a small place, and so we struck up a conversation with him about his time in Oregon. We learned that he also provided inland tours and fishing trips. We exchanged email addresses and he invited us to look him up when we returned the following year. We were happy to meet with him on our return to Ixtapa. We then made arraignments for this tour prior to leaving for Huatulco. <br />
Day One: February 13<br />
With Kris and Bob watching Mazu in the anchorage of Zihuatanejo, meet Joaquin on the pier at 7am for an early start. Joaquin lives in Nueva Italia which is about two hours north of Ixtapa. We ride along on a nice toll road to get there. <br />
Nueva Italia is a working man’s Mexican town with many working in the nearby fields and orchards. Joaquin grew up here and this is where most of his family still lives. His Mother and Father are here along with 9 brothers and sisters (two sisters live in Oregon). There are also numerous Aunts, Uncles, cousins, etc. here. He first takes us to his home to meet his family (and to drop off his laundry). He has a nice large home that he takes great pride in. His parents’ home is in the same fence area as his and he has several brothers with homes along the same small dirt road. As is with most homes in Mexico it is constructed of concrete with tile floors. We meet his wife, Esbeida, his daughter, Esbeida (they call her Beida) and son’s Jacob and John. We also meet his parents Dolores (Lola) and Father Viviano. <br />
After a quick meal at his sisters (Minga) louncheria we head up to the city of Uruapan. We take the old highway that winds through the mountains. We travel through a beautiful and rugged canyon by a really large reservoir and are soon in a pine forest. It reminds me of central Oregon. <br />
Uruapan is a large city, clean and with what seems to be a good standard of living. As we are higher in elevation it is much cooler that at the coast, in fact today it is cloudy and a bit rainy again reminding me of Oregon. He takes us to this beautiful park/nature preserve “Patronato del Parque Nacional.<br />
It is absolutely beautiful here. You follow a trail through a lush forest full of pine trees, cedar trees, ferns, and a rushing river. You think you are in Oregon (the rain is helping) until you see the banana trees. You follow the river as it meanders through the park. Along the way to are treated to elaborate fountains and man-made and natural waterfalls. There is even a fish hatchery located in the park. Most of the drinking water for the city comes from this river. <br />
We finish up our time in the park and head to the small town of San Juan Nuevo. Nuevo means new and it is called Nuevo as the town had to be rebuilt after it was destroyed in 1941 by a volcano eruption. This town has a large and grand church that we tour. It is the largest church I have seen so far in Mexico. Such a large church for such a small town, I am sure there is a story behind that. San Juan Nuevo is also known for its fine needle craft work. There are many shops selling clothing and table cloths with fine embroidery work. Here we have a late lunch and return to Joaquin’s home where we will spend the night. <br />
Day 2: Santa Clara de Cobre, Patzcuaro, Janizio. (February 14, Valentine’s Day)<br />
We are up early as we have a long day planned. We have a light breakfast of homemade tortillas and cinnamon tea. We are picking up Joaquin’s nephew, Raul. He will assist as our guide as he lived in the area we will be going to. <br />
We head north again this time on the toll road for a faster trip up to Santa Clara de Cobre. This small town is renowned for its copper artisans. It is again cool and cloudy as we travel up into the mountains. <br />
Our first stop in Santa Clara de Cobre (Cobre means copper) is a small family copper smiting forge. It is a simple operation with a fire area, a blower to stoke the fire and several specialty hammers and various molds and stumps for hammering the copper to its final form. The son explains that the copper use to mined in the area but now they use recycled material. Here we see several large copper pots/kettles and small decorative items. We purchase two small capper jars. We stroll down the streets looking in the shops. We visit a museum that has many examples of the copper works of the area through time. They also have several pieces from the winners of the annual copper works competition held annually here. <br />
We then go to “Cobre El Porton” where we can see a demonstration of how the copper is worked into the decorative and functional pieces to be sold. Each piece takes several days to complete. The workers are paid by the piece and the tips they receive for the demonstrations. I take several pictures and I am given the opportunity to work on a pot, hammering it into the solid form it will take. It is harder than it looks to get the consistent hammer marks that make up a completed piece. I will leave it up to the artist. I purchase a salt and pepper shaker and a small copper rose to give to Esbeida for Valentine’s Day.<br />
It is soon time to leave as we still are to visit the town of Patzcuaro and the Island of Janizio, In Patzcuaro we have lunch in the large Mercado near the square then head to the lake where the water taxis wait to take you out to the island. <br />
The island is in the middle of the lake and is home to the indigenous people of the Purepecha or Tarascan. Janizio means “Where it rains”. The town if famous for its butterfly fishermen who are skilled in lowering butterfly shaped nets to catch the local fish” pescado blanco” a small white fish that they fry in oil. Now the town caters mostly to tourist who come here. <br />
At the top of the island is a large statue of Jose Maria Morelos, a hero of Mexico’s independence. The island is very steep. You hike up narrow streets and steps to reach the top. Once we are there we are rewarded with a fantastic view of the lake below and a close up look and the spectacular statue. I think that we are done and start to head back down. Joaquin laughs and stops me, saying we are now going to walk up inside the stature to the top of his upraised arm! I think that I won’t come close to making it, but I am game to try. We walk around and around the narrow stair case; each level is painted with murals depicting the life of Morelos. We finally reach the top ( 135 ft.) I get up enough nerve to climb on the small ledge to look out the small window and snap a picture. <br />
It is time to go back to Joaquin’s for dinner. I am going to make spaghetti for him and extended family (about 20). We spend the evening enjoying the food, wine and his family. But we are glad to lie down and sleep after such a long day. <br />
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Esbeida makes us a huge breakfast of hashbrowns, eggs, and of course tortillas. I get a lesson on how to make them. It is not as easy as it looks to get them on to the hot skillet just right and then to flip them (with your fingers) over at just the right time. But I manage to make a few that are edible. Today we will go with Joaquin and the kids to the local Mercado and to his favorite water “park” in Paracuaro. <br />
The park has several pools constructed that are filled with the spring water that his here. The water is so clean, cool and fresh that many people come and fill water bottles to take home. That is what we do too. It is too cool to swim today, but this is a favorite place with Joaquin and his family in the hot summer months where they will spend the entire day here. <br />
And all too soon it is time to go home. We are full from a wonderful fish lunch that Esbeida has prepared for us. We say goodbye to her and the kids. We have had such a great time. And we are truly happy to have met them all. <br />
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text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDHH_IhrXwzA0FadlIi8orZoYtBpWpd2YqjGSoIGk0eBuict-kA13R-2rCSlfWxN1mAcFdKAnH1J14IFGiTDJ39rXQi2weus3AuWfQZwYYDTThZOm3Oh4wKiw84pw7447mY2CCTm5IW0G_/s1600/P1020985.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDHH_IhrXwzA0FadlIi8orZoYtBpWpd2YqjGSoIGk0eBuict-kA13R-2rCSlfWxN1mAcFdKAnH1J14IFGiTDJ39rXQi2weus3AuWfQZwYYDTThZOm3Oh4wKiw84pw7447mY2CCTm5IW0G_/s320/P1020985.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-86728146450309834572012-02-18T14:18:00.000-08:002012-02-18T14:25:46.075-08:00Zihuatanejo & Sail Fest: February 1-11<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzk2nocIxvjUsDpAx5iqXslBprMv5Yl2tO5wXYYvc3I7x7XLHi45XtNILTqwoR8iSPbIzs8RRmo-7JTC5qfOk3qG907Bf1Ar1EMGcMcvDzPeH-JN7hhUxHK-oNBKarX3aVmAjxIPZSIKH-/s1600/P1020798.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; 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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our trip north from Hutulco is a quick motor. We are making good time so we decide not to make a rest stop in Acapulco but to continue on to Zihuatanejo. Along the way we see a giant pod of dolphins, more than we have ever seen in one place. Several come over to play in the bow of the boat. <o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We arrive at Bahia Petatlan (just north of Zihua) before dark on Thursday the 2<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup> making the passage in just over 48 hours. We set anchor and relax in the cockpit and then early to bed. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">As we are still having some refrigeration problems we decide to head into the marina in Ixtapa first thing in the morning. I have already called our friend Brian (remember, he watched to boat for us while we were home in December) to ask if he knew a repair-man. He said he would make a call and have the best one around at our boat by 10am in the morning. We arrive at 9:30. We are happy to see our friend’s boat, Serendipity in the slip just next to us. We just missed them though as they needed to hop on a bus for an inland tour. <o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Brian is there to greet us and soon the repair folks are here. The problem just seems to be getting the Freon correct. So he tests it and adds more Freon. It now seems to work great, let’s keep our fingers crossed. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our boat is a mess after two long passages, so we have Brian give it a good wash. I also take up all the laundry to be taken to be washed, (laundry mats are really nonexistent, and usually the same place as who will do it for you and it is just as cheap to have them do it).<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mel and I take the bus to Zihatanejo to register for the Sail-Fest activities. Sail-Fest is an annual five-day festival with the goal to raise money and awareness for the education of Zihuatanejo’s poorest children. There are concerts, beach parties, a boat parade and auctions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We register our boat, sign up to be in the sail parade and purchase tickets to the benefit concert. Then head to Zorro’s for a cold beer. <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">On Sunday we head over to the main anchorage in Zihatanejo and find a good spot close to the dingy beach. After we settle in we take a cab to the market to provision for the week. We are happy to welcome our friends, Bob and Kris from Seattle. They have come to visit us for the Sail-Fest activities, and will stay on our boat while we are gone for our inland trip. They arrive on February 6<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> and we enjoy drinks and dinner in town with them.<o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The next few days are busy with activities. We enjoy a walk along the beach walkway and drinks by the pool at Bob and Kris’ hotel, the opening party and auction, and the benefit concert. Once again this is one of the highlights of the festival for me. While the meal has something to be desired, the music is fantastic. We are also happy to meet up there with two of our “ladies” who were our guests at last year’s boat parade. They are also going to go to Huatulco, so I give them Gabriel’s information. It is also a bit of a sad time when we say goodbye to our friends Hugh and Anne on the boat Serendipity. They will leave for South American in a few days and I doubt that our paths will cross again. We had lots of good times with them while in Mexico. <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Sail Parade<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Friday is the parade day. It is cloudy with a few sprinkles now and then. This is unusual for here. It does not seem to be putting a damper on the guests and we have seven guests on board. We had purchased a ticket for Joaquin to come as our guest. So along with Kris and Bob, we are hosts to Karen, of Nanaimo BC, Charlie and Dianne of Minnesota, Tracy of Main, and Tim and Donna of Nanaimo BC. All the boats in the parade make a circle around the bay then head over to Ixtapa bay make a circle around it then head back. This takes about 2 hours or so. We manage to sail for a little. When we return all are welcomed to stay and relax in the cockpit for the afternoon. We share drinks, snacks and great conversation (and a Spanish lesson from Joaquin). <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even with the rain it was a great day. Thanks to all our guests for the memorable day. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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</div>Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3520613291822028943.post-16975752365957624492012-02-18T10:02:00.000-08:002012-02-18T10:10:39.625-08:00Huatulco January 19-31<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvkX7hylcgtHaLC47WgX136DO4vt44QOLAVhddz7heM87Rmc3Ap08hmEB9rdtRpKvL-XyYzM5pHUc_ZUsD2QVUwM9tMf5L1-_XPuzQteEIoj5zO-jyAYgWHZHxaj5BqSY3d9Mj35vFpbys/s1600/P1020777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvkX7hylcgtHaLC47WgX136DO4vt44QOLAVhddz7heM87Rmc3Ap08hmEB9rdtRpKvL-XyYzM5pHUc_ZUsD2QVUwM9tMf5L1-_XPuzQteEIoj5zO-jyAYgWHZHxaj5BqSY3d9Mj35vFpbys/s320/P1020777.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2GqqgvxqSSQmg1mtDxGCojy-0DZsUqULHcb_dCOjGg5pxYTTNvqMFnEYvHIdsryex9df9Is6QB-Hb9N6tpTjRHU3D0zmPO5KAf1Ejiz06NsRt0RDHX1f9opeDp28xTBWNrieT1d1F7hSu/s1600/P1020700.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; 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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bahia’s de Huatulco January 19<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> – January 31st<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We finally have made it to Huatulco. It was a 33 hour passage from Acapulco. Our first anchorage is at Isla Cacaluta at Bahia Cacaluta, one of the 9 bays of Huatulco (wah-tool-co). <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bahia’s de Huatulco is comprised of nine beautiful bays. We had heard of it in our travels last year and decided to make it our southernmost destination for this year. Many boats stop here to wait for a weather window to cross the infamous Gulf of Tehuantepec on their way to South America. <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Huatulco is also a tourist destination for Mexicans and Norte Americanos and Canadians alike. The entire area was reclaimed and rebuilt for that purpose in the 1990’s by Fonatar, the Mexican tourist agency. They developed a small harbor in Bahia Santa Cruz for fishing boats and tourist site-seeing boats and there is a cruise ship pier just outside. The small town of Santa Cruz is located here. <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Most of the other bays are part of the National Marine Park system and are protected. Isla Cacaluta is part of this Marine Park. We anchor next to the cordoned off snorkel reef. The island is giving us good protection from the sea swell so we are able to get some much needed rest. Mel has come down with a cold so we spend our first three nights here. I get out the kayaks and snorkel gear and explore the reef. <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We soon find out that what we thought was a nice private anchorage is part of the bay(s) tour for the double decker tour boats. We seem to have become part of the tour. Mazu will be in many pictures. We wave and smile. <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mel recovers from his cold and we are off to explore the rest of the bays. Our next stop is Bahia Maguey and Organo. These two beaches share an entrance. One beach, Maguey is dotted with palapa restaurants and is a destination via boat and cars. We set our anchor and dink to shore for a cold beer and ceviche. <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is here that we make a new friend. Gabriel greets us as we land our dingy, and like most of the places he is there to “invite” us to his restaurant. He seems very nice to we follow him down the beach to La Casa del Abuelo.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like many of the waiters and taxi drivers we have met (the ones that speak good English) the all can help you with arraignment of tours, fishing, etc. Gabriel is the same. He offers to help us in any way he can. As Mel knows I would love to go on a real fishing trip we make arraignments to meet the owner of a fishing panga the next morning to arrange a fishing trip for me. Gabriel offers to come also as an interpreter. <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We return to Mazu and reset our anchor, and set a stern anchor for the night. This very busy cove becomes dark and quiet at night and the entire place closes up and the last of the buses and taxis leave by 7pm. All we hear are the stray dogs barking on the beach. We sit in the cockpit of the boat and enjoy the cool breeze and the sounds of the birds, dogs, and waves. This is the life. <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Most waiters make about 100 pesos (less than 10.00) per day and depend on these extras to supplement the income. In fact I think they take the waiting jobs so they can meet gringos. Our Gabriel seems to know everyone (as we soon find out is somewhat true). Anyway we meet in the morning with Sergio (the boat owner) and Gabriel. The date is set for Tuesday for to pick us up on Mazu in Bahia Santa Cruz. <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We move to Bahia Santa Cruz and anchor to starboard of the cruise ship dock. There is a nice little beach to land your dingy. The restaurant there has and outdoor shower to wash the sand from your feet. This is a nice luxury as that is always a problem with beach landings, to get the sand off your feet so you can put your sandals on and not have the sand rub blisters on your feet as you walk around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Santa Cruz use to be a small fishing village and is now set up with restaurants along the beach and various gift and jewelry shops. There is, like in all Mexican towns a nice tree lined square. We find a wonderful handmade rug/tapestry shop. It is owned by a family and we met the young man to works the loom. We spy a wall hanging that we fall in love with. We make a deal with Freddy (his name) and will come back to purchase it. <o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">FISHING DAY</b><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Gabriel and Sergio arrive at about 6:30 a.m.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In Karen (the name of his boat), a very nice (I am relieved to see) fishing panga with a sun awning on it. It is very clean and in like new shape. <o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The seas are flat and it is a nice cool morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We get our first strike with-in the hour. Sergio says it is a yellow fin, and it is a big one. Unfortunately he gets off the hook. Sergio is not worried, said that fishing and we will get more. It soon becomes apparent that this guy knows what he is doing. We find out that he has been fishing all of his life and so did his family. In fact he shows us where his family home was, now taken over with condos. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Next I catch a good size Bonita, good for ceviche he says.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am watching him intently. I want to see what lures and bait he uses and how he trolls for them. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We soon get another strike and after some very hard work I land a 25lbs (+/-) Yellow Fin Tuna!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sergio is as happy as I am and calls “beer for the Captain” in English. We all have one to celebrate the catch. It is now time for lunch. Sergio prepares one of the Bonita’s for ceviche. It is delicious and makes a great lunch. <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The ocean is spotted with sea turtles; we see at least two dozen today. I catch another Yellow Finn of about the same size. It is then time to head for shore. Poles are in everything is secure, and like all fishing panga’s returning to harbor, Sergio goes full blast for home!<o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I keep one fish and give the other to Sergio and Gabriel as a tip. As it is we get enough tuna steaks in our freeze for many a meal and ceviche.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We are the only boat to catch fish that day, all the other panga owners’ mill around and chit chat with Sergio while he fillets the fish up for me. They are all his friends he tells me, and gives one of the Bonita’s to one of his friends. I guess it will feed his family that night. We learn that Sergio has a great reputation for catching fish. We see him a few days later cleaning six Yellow Fins that his charter caught that day. I hope we can return one day I would go again in a hot minute… <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">SANTA MARIA AND LA CRUCECITA <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We meet Gabriel again first thing in the morning for a short driving tour of the area. One of his friends (as I said he knows everyone) owns a nice taxi so we rent it for the day. We first tour the hotel “row” at Bahia Tangolunda, and the small surfing beach at Conejo.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We then turn inland to visit the county seat of Santa Maria. Here we find the municipal building with a very interesting mural painted inside depicting some of the local lore and history. There is a beautiful church here and busy commercial streets. We find a small lunch counter and have cantaloupe juice and Quesada for lunch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I then buy some produce from a street merchant to take back to the boat. <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We then head back towards the bay to the small town of La Crucecita. Here is one of the prettiest squares we have seen. Large banyan type trees shade the area, a pretty gazebo in the middle and benches to sit and relax line the entire square. And as always the church is nearby. In this pretty church we are treated to a beautiful painting on the ceiling of the Virgin Mary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We spend some time walking around the square and side streets. This is the closest town to the bays of Huatulco so I also pick up some provisions for the boat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gabriel then returns us to the beach as he heads to work. <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bahia Tangolunda<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We are happy to see Groovy come sail by and then return to Bahia Santa Cruz to set anchor. We catch up with them with beers in their cockpit. We make plans to move over to Bahia Tangolunda the next day. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We set anchor in Bahia Tangolunda in front of a resort. It used to be a Club Med but it is something else now. It is very pretty. We do set a stern anchor to keep us pointed into the swell. I then explore in my kayak and I am rewarded with a close encounter with a dolphin. <o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bahia Tangolunda is lined with beach resorts so it is a very active bay with jet skis, hobie cats, and kayaks. The beaches are filled (but not to filled) with vacationers enjoying the beautiful area and weather. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Unfortunately we seem to be anchored right by the evening entertainment hall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The music is very loud most of the night. The next morning Groovy and Mazu move to the other side of the bay where it is less rolly and quieter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We enjoy another evening with Mark and Emily with beers, ceviche and great conversation. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Mexican Wedding<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our friend and guide, Gabriel has invited us to his friend’s wedding reception. He is in a band that will be providing the music. This is a chance we just cannot pass up. His friends, Salbador and Isabel are older and have been together for many years and in fact have a child together, but they have now decided to get married. <o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The reception is in a hotel in Santa Cruz near where we are anchored so it is a short walk there. Luckily I have a dress, and Mel has a pair of slacks to wear. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Gabriel meets us in the lobby and takes us in. We meet the bride’s sister and are seated at a nice table. We are the only (save one man) grigos there. But no one seems to take much notice and we are treated like one of the family. <o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A Mexican wedding reception is very similar to ours. The bride and groom enter and have a first dance, a waltz. Then the parents dance with them, then an announcer starts calling other names and other friends and family members all take turns dancing with the couple. It is very orderly. We find out later that after the parents the others are relatives and friends who have helped to sponsor the wedding a reception. This takes about 45 minutes. I am sure the couple are tired. Then the band plays some music and friends and family take gifts to the wedding table and congratulate the couple. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Drinks and music continue and some people dance. Gabriel announces that we are there from Oregon and that we are his friends there to celebrate with the couple. <o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A nice fish dinner is served and cake. Then more music and dancing. We are invited (one of the family, living in San Antonio Texas) speaks English and she invites us to join in the large circle dancing around the couple. We soon find ourselves in the middle, me dancing with groom, Mel with the bride, to much applause.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are having a great time. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">One of the highlights is the couples own dance to a chosen song. The sister brings up a c.d. and asks the band to play it in the CD player. Then the couple gets up to dance. I am expecting a romantic Mexican song to start, but no, it is Queen’s “Give me somebody to love” played at full volume. The couple obviously planed and practiced this dance, and this song must mean something to them. But we were surprised to say the least.<o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This night was one of the highlights of our time in Mexico. I gave us a snapshot into the Mexican culture and its people. They were warm, inviting to us and most of all they are a fun-loving people. We will remember this night always. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Time to go:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We cannot believe that is soon time for us to leave. We raise anchor in Santa Cruz to Bahia Organo for a night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then we find the gem of an anchorage in Bahia La India. A beautiful protected anchorage. A few tour boats stop in here for the day but in the late afternoon and evening it is empty and quite. There is a reef here that is perfect for snorkeling. We spend 2 days here and have a final good by with our friends Mark and Emily. Raising anchor at 6pm on January 31<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">st</span></sup>. We say a sad goodbye to Huatulco one of our most favorite places in Mexico.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hope that we can return again.</span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Pictures in this blog:</strong></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The wedding reception</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Fresh Cevechi</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Yellow Fin Tuna</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Town square at La Crucecita</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mel and I </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mel and Gabriel</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Painting on church ceiling in La Crucecita</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Gabriel and his band at the wedding reception</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBJEXGWwdk4RB12Bosph6ueH8oH2wXVXQsDifzAaFP-58SwqASbCumUUym0JMMcUfx3ElB4NXCvDcPvchY3spBGpPiGLzp7uG_gatX43x_aJA1SmL69Xoy02MjlNbz5FM_Wf1KsfzdzCaA/s1600/P1020774.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBJEXGWwdk4RB12Bosph6ueH8oH2wXVXQsDifzAaFP-58SwqASbCumUUym0JMMcUfx3ElB4NXCvDcPvchY3spBGpPiGLzp7uG_gatX43x_aJA1SmL69Xoy02MjlNbz5FM_Wf1KsfzdzCaA/s320/P1020774.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16673617515314350645noreply@blogger.com0